Vulvar and Vaginal Atrophy: Physiology, Clinical Presentation, and Treatment Considerations

Clin Obstet Gynecol. 2015 Sep;58(3):476-91. doi: 10.1097/GRF.0000000000000126.

Abstract

Vulvovaginal atrophy is a common condition associated with decreased estrogenization of the vaginal tissue. Symptoms include vaginal dryness, irritation, itching, soreness, burning, dyspareunia, discharge, urinary frequency, and urgency. It can occur at any time in a woman's life cycle, although more commonly in the postmenopausal phase, during which the prevalence is approximately 50%. Despite the high prevalence and the substantial effect on quality of life, vulvovaginal atrophy often remains underreported and undertreated. This article aims to review the physiology, clinical presentation, assessment, and current recommendations for treatment, including aspects of effectiveness and safety of local vaginal estrogen therapies.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Administration, Cutaneous
  • Administration, Intravaginal
  • Aging / physiology*
  • Atrophy / diagnosis
  • Atrophy / physiopathology
  • Atrophy / therapy
  • Estrogen Replacement Therapy / methods*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Lubricants / therapeutic use
  • Menopause / physiology*
  • Vagina / pathology*
  • Vaginal Diseases / diagnosis
  • Vaginal Diseases / physiopathology*
  • Vaginal Diseases / therapy
  • Vulva / pathology*
  • Vulvar Diseases / diagnosis
  • Vulvar Diseases / physiopathology*
  • Vulvar Diseases / therapy

Substances

  • Lubricants