Symptoms of Vaginal Atrophy in Simple Terms
Vaginal atrophy causes vaginal dryness, itching, burning, pain during sex, and urinary problems that affect about half of women after menopause. 1
What You Might Feel
Vaginal Discomfort
- Dryness is the most common complaint—your vagina feels dry and uncomfortable even when you're not having sex 2, 1
- Itching and burning sensations in and around the vagina that can be constant or come and go 1, 3
- Soreness or irritation in the vaginal area that makes you uncomfortable throughout the day 3, 4
Sexual Problems
- Pain during sex (dyspareunia) is a hallmark symptom—intercourse becomes uncomfortable or even painful 2, 1
- Spotting or light bleeding after sex because the vaginal tissues become fragile 5
- Decreased sexual desire often develops because sex becomes associated with discomfort 2
Urinary Symptoms
- Frequent need to urinate—you feel like you have to go more often than usual 1, 3
- Urgency—when you need to go, you need to go right away 2, 4
- Burning or pain when urinating can occur 5
- More frequent urinary tract infections than you had before 2
Physical Changes You or Your Doctor Might Notice
- Vaginal discharge that may be white or slightly discolored 1, 3
- The vaginal opening and tissues may appear pale, dry, or have small red spots (petechiae) 4
- Loss of the normal folds inside the vagina 4
Important Context
Unlike hot flashes that improve over time, vaginal atrophy symptoms typically persist or worsen without treatment. 2, 6 Around 50-60% of postmenopausal women experience these symptoms, yet only about 25% seek treatment, often because they're embarrassed to discuss intimate complaints or assume it's just a normal part of aging. 5, 6
The condition is particularly severe in women who've had their ovaries removed surgically or are taking certain breast cancer medications like aromatase inhibitors, which can cause symptoms in up to 18% of users. 2
These symptoms significantly reduce quality of life and sexual satisfaction, but effective treatments are available—you don't have to suffer in silence. 1, 5