Vaginal atrophy, often associated with menopause or hormonal changes, is a condition that affects many women, yet it’s not always discussed openly. When a woman has sufficient estrogen, all is well. But if estrogen starts to decrease, she is impacted by many negative consequences. So, what does vaginal atrophy feel like? Continue reading to learn more about the causes and symptoms of this condition.

What Vaginal Atrophy Feels Like

Vaginal atrophy feels like a sense of discomfort or dryness in the vaginal area. Women often describe it as a feeling of tightness or soreness, especially during physical activities or intercourse. The skin inside the vagina may become thinner and less elastic, leading to sensations of irritation, itching, or even burning. In more severe cases, the lack of moisture can cause the vaginal walls to feel fragile, increasing the risk of minor tears or bleeding.

Lack of Estrogen Negatively Impacts the Vagina

When a woman’s vagina is healthy, the inside has a thick lining and moisture. Of course, all is well and sexual intercourse is pleasurable and easy. But when women have less estrogen during perimenopause and menopause, it affects many normal functions like those of the vagina.

A lack of blood flow and moisture is the result of estrogen decline as well as the lining of the vagina becomes thinner. Consequently, sexual intercourse is difficult, sometimes even painful. Talk with Riverwalk OB-GYN in San Antonio, TX for treatments and solutions before your symptoms worsen.

Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause

Genitourinary syndrome of menopause, or GSM is becoming the new name for vaginal atrophy. This is to include the urinary side effects that coincide with menopause and vaginal atrophy due to the decline in estrogen.

Common Symptoms of GSM

The decline in estrogen and unpleasant symptoms of GMS include the following:

• Urinary urgency
• Vaginal burning
• Discomfort or pain during intercourse
• Burning sensation with urination
• Vaginal dryness
• Frequent urination
• Vaginal itching
• Recurrent urinary tract infections

Obviously, all of these symptoms give pause for concern. Not only do they take the joy out of sexual activity, they can also cause urinary bladder leakage, which is embarrassing. Needless to say, when you have vaginal atrophy (GSM) it feels like you have traded bodies with a much older woman.

Conclusion

Understanding what vaginal atrophy feels like is crucial for women who may be going through this condition. And early recognition and treatment can help alleviate discomfort and prevent further complications.

Contact Riverwalk OB-GYN at (210) 402-6022 for options to improve the unpleasant symptoms of vaginal atrophy.