The W.O. Frohring Family Resource Center
Part of Rainbow Babies and Children’s Hospital, this center has a resource library with information on parenting, breastfeeding, sibling relationships and much more. Materials may be borrowed for a limited time within the hospital, and copying services are available.
Patients who have recently given birth at MacDonald Women’s Hospital find the library to be an excellent source on topics relating to newborns and their parents. The Frohring Family Resource Center supports a caring and effective partnership between families and their healthcare team by providing general assistance on baby care and health-related issues. You can learn more about the Center on the Rainbow Babies & Children’s Hospital website. Community residents are also welcome to visit or call the center for information.
Health Encyclopedia
Atrophic vaginitis
Atrophic vaginitis is an inflammation of the vagina due to thinning and shrinking tissues and a decrease in lubrication.
Causes, incidence, and risk factors |
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Atrophic vaginitis is typically caused by a decrease in estrogen. Estrogen levels normally drop after menopause. The disorder may occur in younger women who have had surgery to remove their ovaries. Some women develop the condition immediately after childbirth or while breastfeeding, since estrogen levels are lower at these times.
A pelvic examination reveals thin, pale vaginal walls. A wet prep (microscopic evaluation of vaginal discharge) may be done to rule out other causes of vaginitis. Hormonal studies may be done if menopausal status is uncertain.
Estrogen replacement therapy may be recommended. Estrogen may be given as a cream or tablet placed into the vagina, as a skin patch, or in pill form.
Women may want to discuss the risks and benefits of estrogen replacement therapy (pills) with their health care provider.
A water-soluble vaginal lubricant may help relieve pain during intercourse.
Proper treatment will usually relieve the symptoms.
Atrophic vaginitis may make you more prone to vaginal infections caused by bacteria or fungi (yeast).
Atrophic vaginitis can also cause open sores or cracks in the vaginal wall.
Calling your health care provider |
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Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you are experiencing vaginal dryness or soreness, burning, itching, or painful sexual intercourse that is not alleviated with a water-soluble lubricant.
Review Date:
11/8/2006
Reviewd By:
Audra Robertson, MD, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.