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. 2013:6:153-8.
doi: 10.2147/IJGM.S43192. Epub 2013 Mar 15.

Barriers to effective treatment of vaginal atrophy with local estrogen therapy

Suzanne Reiter  1
Affiliations

Barriers to effective treatment of vaginal atrophy with local estrogen therapy

Suzanne Reiter. Int J Gen Med. 2013.

Abstract

Vaginal atrophy is a common condition among postmenopausal women, among whom many exhibit both vulvovaginal symptoms (eg, dryness, irritation, itching, and pain with intercourse) and urinary symptoms (eg, increased frequency, urgency, incontinence, urinary tract infections, and dysuria). Unfortunately, few women with symptoms of vaginal atrophy report seeking treatment from a health care provider. The goal of this article is to examine reasons why patients and health care providers do not engage in discourse regarding this important topic. It is important to initiate conversations with postmenopausal women and counsel them on both why the changes occur and potential treatment options.

Keywords: barriers; local estrogen therapy; postmenopausal women; vaginal atrophy.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Influence of estrogen on the vaginal epithelium. Notes: Before menopause, high levels of estrogen stimulate maturation of the vaginal epithelium to generate a thick layer of mature superficial cells. After menopause, lack of estrogen leaves the epithelium much thinner, with very few or no superficial cells. In many women, this thinning is associated with vaginal dryness, irritation, itching, and pain with intercourse, a condition referred to as vaginal atrophy or atrophic vaginitis.
Figure 2
Figure 2
Barriers to the treatment of vaginal atrophy with local estrogen therapy. Notes: Several major barriers may prevent women from seeking help for menopause-related vaginal discomfort. Communication and education are key factors in overcoming these barriers.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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