Women who go through menopause experience many changes. One of he most common changes is a condition called atrophic vaginitis. While this sounds like a very serious medical condition, it is a condition that can be easily treated once it is diagnosed.

Atrophic vaginitis is caused by lowering levels of estrogen as a result of the menopausal process. This lack of estrogen thins and shrinks tissues in the vagina, causing the vagina to become inflamed. The vagina also has difficulty in producing lubrication, which results in vaginal dryness.

The symptoms of atrophic vaginitis include slight vaginal discharge, painful intercourse, light bleeding after intercourse, a painful or burning sensation in the vaginal area, and a burning sensation during urination. All of these symptoms can make daily life very uncomfortable, but they can be addressed by your doctor.

In order to diagnose atrophic vagnitis, your doctor will conduct a routine pelvic exam. During this exam, your doctor will see pale, thin vaginal walls if you do have atrophic vaginitis. At this time, your doctor may also conduct a wet prep test in order to rule out any other causes of vaginitis. Your doctor may also conduct hormonal studies if they are not certain you have entered menopause.

One of the most common treatments for atrophic vaginitits is estrogen replacement therapy. However, recent studies have indicated a link between hormonal therapy with several different types of cancer. A woman will need to discuss whether or not she should begin hormone replacement therapy with her doctor. Hormones can be delivered through a patch, pill, or a cream that is applied directly to the vagina. Your doctor may also suggest a personal lubricant in order to treat vaginal dryness.

If you have atrophic vaginitis, you are more likely to develop vaginal infections that are caused by bacteria or fungi. Your doctor will discuss steps you can take to reduce your risk of vaginal infection. Women with atrophic vaginitis can also develop painful open sores or cracks in the vaginal wall. If you suspect that you may have developed these sores, make an appointment to see your doctor.

Once your doctor properly diagnoses atrophic vaginitis, treatment can begin immediately. Women who have been treated report that their relief was almost immediate. If you think you may have atrophic vaginitis, make an appointment to see your doctor so that you can discuss your concerns with a medical professional.

Kristi Patrice Carter is an experienced health writer and the author of Beating Bacterial Vaginosis for Good! (A comprehensive eBook that teaches women how to successfully overcome Bacterial Veginosis). For additional information, please visit http://www.bacterialvaginosisrecurrent.com .