Vaginal complaints

What is vaginal atrophy (vaginal dystrophy)?

Vaginal atrophy refers to the thinning and smoothing of the vaginal wall with reduced functionality.

What are the causes of vaginal atrophy?

The underlying cause is usually the natural decline in estrogen after the last menstrual period (menopause), which leads to vulvovaginal atrophy in all women after menopause, with typical symptoms such as vaginal dryness and pain during intercourse (dyspareunia). Estrogens are mainly produced in the ovaries and are important for maintaining blood flow, moisture (fluidity), and tissue elasticity in the vagina.

Hormonal changes as a trigger?

Since the described symptoms are caused by the natural decline in hormone levels during menopause, potentially every woman in this life stage is affected.
With the drop in estrogen levels in postmenopause, the vaginal epithelium smooths out, and the vaginal surface lacks glycogen, which serves as a nutrient source for lactobacilli that are important for a healthy vaginal flora. Vaginal fluid decreases during menopause, leading to vaginal dryness. Dryness in the vagina manifests as burning, itching, and pain during intercourse. Vaginal dryness is a risk factor for infections, and problems with the urinary system, such as urinary tract infections, can also occur.

Causes of vaginal dryness include, besides vaginal atrophy, medications, breastfeeding, as well as surgical and therapeutic procedures. Smoking and excessive intimate hygiene can also lead to vaginal dryness.

Another large group of women who may be affected by vulvovaginal atrophy are patients treated for breast cancer. Therapeutic treatments such as radiation therapy often have vaginal dryness as a side effect. 

How do I recognize vaginal dryness?

The diagnosis is made by a gynecologist. Other conditions that cause similar symptoms must be ruled out, including fungal infections and various sexually transmitted diseases such as chlamydia infection or trichomoniasis.

Depending on the cause, treatment may include hormones, moisturizers, and agents to strengthen the vaginal environment. CANNEFF VAG SUP suppositories are also an effective treatment for vaginal dryness, vaginal complaints, and pain during intercourse.

What are the consequences of vaginal atrophy?

The vaginal pH shifts to a less acidic range of 6.0 to 8.0, leading to a change in the vaginal flora toward more coliform bacteria. Together with other atrophic changes, the altered pH and reduced regenerative capacity cause increased susceptibility and frequency of infections and injuries. Additionally, bleeding and pain during intercourse (dyspareunia) occur.