YES® Guide to Vaginal AtrophyUpdated a month ago
Vaginal atrophy or atrophic vaginitis is an inflammation of the vagina that manifests itself with a thinning and shrinking of the vaginal tissues. It can cause vaginal dryness, itchiness and irritation.
Vaginal atrophy is caused by hormonal changes, so it affects many women, and although it is most common during and after the menopause, it can happen at any age. Other possible causes for atrophic vaginitis are childbirth, the use of contraceptives, cancer and its treatments, and other events that affect hormone production.
This condition can be deeply upsetting as it affects intimacy but is also physically uncomfortable or even painful.