postmenopausal atrophic vaginitis

Atrophic vaginitis

The Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM)—formerly known as vulvovaginal atrophy and atrophic vaginitis—refers to a constellation of physical changes in the vulva, vagina, and lower urinary tract, and the associated sexual and urinary tract symptoms that result from a lack of estrogen in these tissues. Symptoms may include pain during penetrative sex, vaginal itchiness or dryness, and an urge to urinate or burning with urination. It generally does not resolve without ongoing treatment. Complications may include urinary tract infections. Diagnosis is typically based on symptoms. The former term atrophic vaginitis is now regarded as inaccurate, as it suggests that the vagina is inflamed or infected. Inflammation and infection are not the major components of postmenopausal changes to the vagina. Similarly, the former term "vulvovaginal atrophy" does not reflect the related changes of the labia, clitoris, vestibule, urethra and bladder. The neglected negative effects on the lower urinary tract can be the most troubling symptoms of menopause for women. "Genitourinary syndrome of menopause" was therefore determined to be more accurate than the former terms by two professional societies. It is an umbrella term for vulvovaginal atrophy, atrophic vaginitis, urogenital atrophy and vaginal atrophy that occurs due to a decrease in estrogen. The decrease in estrogen typically occurs following menopause. Other causes may include breastfeeding, surgical removal of ovaries, or specific medications. Risk factors include smoking. First line treatment for the genitourinary syndrome of...