Vaginal Complaints

What is vaginal thinning (vaginal dystrophy)?

What are the causes of vaginal thinning?

The underlying cause is usually the natural drop in oestrogen after the last menstrual bleeding (menopause), which leads to vulvovaginal thinning in all women after menopause, with typical complaints such as vaginal dryness and pain during intercourse (dyspareunia). Oestrogens are mainly produced in the ovaries and are important for maintaining blood flow, moisture (fluidity), and elasticity of the tissue in the vagina.

Hormonal change as a trigger?

Since the described symptoms are caused by the natural decline of hormone levels during the menopause , potentially every woman in this life phase is affected.
With the drop in oestrogen levels in the postmenopause, the vaginal lining smooths out, and the vaginal surface lacks glycogen, which serves as nourishment for lactobacilli that are important for a healthy vaginal flora. Vaginal fluid decreases during the menopause, leading to vaginal dryness. Dryness in the vagina manifests as burning, itching, and pain during intercourse. Vaginal dryness is a risk factor for infectious diseases, and at the same time, problems with the urinary system, such as bladder infections, can also occur.

Causes of vaginal dryness include, besides vaginal thinning, also 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 thinning 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 the gynecologist. Other illnesses that cause similar symptoms must be definitely ruled out. These include fungal infections and various sexually transmitted diseases, such as chlamydia infection or trichomoniasis.

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

What are the consequences of vaginal thinning?

The pH value of the vagina changes to a less acidic range of 6.0 to 8.0, and there is a change in the vaginal flora towards more coliform bacteria. Together with other thinning developments, the changed pH value combined with reduced regenerative ability is responsible for increased susceptibility and frequency of infections and injuries. Furthermore, bleeding and pain during intercourse (dyspareunia) occur.