How to treat atrophic vaginitis

Atrophic vaginitis can be treated with topical estrogen treatments, vaginal moisturizers, antibiotic treatments, laser treatments, lifestyle modifications, and more. Atrophic vaginitis is usually caused by decreased estrogen levels, imbalance of vaginal flora, poor local hygiene, poor control of diabetes, and long-term use of antibiotics.

1. Local estrogen treatment

Topical estrogen treatment is the preferred method for atrophic vaginitis. Commonly used drugs include estriol cream, proestren vaginal capsules, conjugated estrogen ointment, etc. These drugs can directly supplement the missing estrogen in the vaginal mucosa and improve vaginal atrophy, dryness and inflammation. Before use, a history of estrogen-dependent tumors such as breast cancer and endometrial cancer needs to be ruled out, and endometrial thickness needs to be reviewed regularly during use.

2. Vaginal moisturizer

Vaginal moisturizers such as hyaluronic acid gel, lactic acid gel, etc. can relieve vaginal dryness and discomfort. This type of product can simulate natural vaginal secretions, maintain a moist vaginal environment, and repair damaged mucosa. It is suitable for patients who are temporarily unwilling to use estrogen or need long-term auxiliary treatment. It is recommended to use it 2-3 times a week, and wash the vulva with warm water.

3. Antibiotic treatment

Antibiotics need to be used when combined with infection. Common drugs include metronidazole vaginal effervescent tablets, clindamycin phosphate vaginal cream, miconazole nitrate suppositories, etc. Sensitive drugs need to be selected based on secretion culture results to avoid overuse of antibiotics leading to further imbalance of the bacterial flora. Sexual intercourse is prohibited during medication, and spouses need to be treated simultaneously to prevent cross-infection.

4. Laser treatment

Carbon dioxide fractional laser or erbium laser can stimulate vaginal mucosal collagen regeneration and improve atrophy symptoms. Laser treatment can promote local microcirculation and enhance mucosal elasticity, and is suitable for stubborn cases where traditional treatments are ineffective. It is necessary to choose a regular medical institution for operation. Avoid bathing and sexual intercourse within 1 month after treatment. A brief burning sensation may occur, which is a normal reaction.

5. Lifestyle adjustments

Keep your vulva clean and dry, choose pure cotton underwear and change it daily. Avoid using soaps and lotions to clean the vagina excessively. Just rinse the vulva with warm water. Moderately increase the intake of phytoestrogens such as soy products and flax seeds, and insist on Kegel exercises to enhance pelvic floor muscle strength. To control blood sugar stably, diabetic patients need to maintain glycated hemoglobin below 7%.

Patients with atrophic vaginitis should wear breathable cotton underwear every day and avoid prolonged sitting and compression by tight pants. Nuts and olive oil rich in vitamin E can be added to the diet to help repair mucous membranes. Postmenopausal women are recommended to undergo gynecological examinations every year. Vaginal burning pain that has not been relieved for a long time should be checked for vulvar leukoplakia or lichen sclerosus. During treatment, bathing and swimming are prohibited, and water-soluble lubricants can be used during sexual intercourse to reduce friction and damage.