Vaginal Atrophy
Vaginal atrophy is a condition in which estrogen loss causes tissues of the vulva (the external parts of the female genital organs) and the lining of the vagina to become thin, dry, and less elastic. Vaginal secretions diminish, resulting in decreased lubrication, according to the Menopause Society.
Vaginal atrophy is a condition in which estrogen loss causes tissues of the vulva (the external parts of the female genital organs) and the lining of the vagina to become thin, dry, and less elastic. Vaginal secretions diminish, resulting in decreased lubrication, according to the Inline content unavailable.
Vaginal Atrophy (Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause – GSM)
Vaginal atrophy happens when the walls of your vagina become thin, dry, and irritated. This usually occurs when your body makes less estrogen, especially during or after menopause.
This condition is also called Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM) because it affects both your vagina and urinary system. Inline content unavailable
Common Symptoms:
Vaginal dryness, burning, or itching
Unusual discharge
Burning when peeing or needing to pee often
Leaking urine or difficulty holding it in
More frequent urinary tract infections (UTIs)
Pain or bleeding during or after sex
Less natural lubrication during sex
Dryness is often the first symptom. GSM is very common—up to 40% of women after menopause experience it.
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What Causes It?
The main cause is a drop in estrogen, which can happen due to:
Perimenopause & menopause
Breastfeeding
Certain medications (like anti-estrogen drugs or birth control pills)
Removal of the ovaries
Chemotherapy or radiation to the pelvis
When estrogen is low, vaginal and urinary tissues become more fragile and dry.
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How Is It Treated?
Regular sexual activity (alone or with a partner) can help keep the vagina healthy by increasing blood flow and elasticity.
Vaginal moisturizers and water-based lubricants can ease dryness and pain during sex.
If those don’t help, your doctor may recommend estrogen therapy in the form of:
Creams or suppositories
A flexible vaginal ring
Pills
Avoid scented products like perfumes, sprays, and powders near your vagina, and stick to loose-fitting clothing and unscented soaps.
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How Amissa Helps
Amissa supports women with vaginal atrophy and GSM by making it easier to track symptoms, access reliable information, and find treatment options:
Track your symptoms– Log hot flashes, sleep issues, mood changes, and more to build a clear picture of your menopause experience.
See your trends– Spot patterns in your symptoms and health data over time to better understand what’s changing.
Automatically share insights with your doctor– personalized summaries of your symptoms and activities are available to your provider so they can offer care that fits your needs.
With Amissa, managing GSM becomes less overwhelming—and more proactive.
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