Vaginal atrophy is easier to prevent than treat.
Being sexually active, even if you are alone, helps maintain muscle tone and high quality blood flow to the area. Allow enough time for foreplay to make sure that the vaginal walls are lubricated before penetration.
Use a water-based lubricant or vaginal moisturizer to reduce discomfort and skin irritation. Oil-based products can break down condoms.
If you still experience symptoms, see your doctor. There are estrogen creams that work at a local level, with very little getting into your bloodstream. Your doctor might consider vaginal estrogen tablets or a vaginal estrogen ring. This ring releases estrogen in the area and into your blood and needs to be replaced every few months.
And if these measures still do not relieve symptoms, your doctor will consider if you are a candidate for oral hormone tablets. Previous medical conditions, such as cancer, may disqualify a woman from taking hormones orally.
Vaginal issues can be embarrassing to discuss with a healthcare provider, but help is ailable.
— Debra Rose Wilson, PhD, MSN, RN, IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT