Vaginal atrophy: how to relieve the symptoms?

1. What is vaginal atrophy?

This term is used to describe a situation where, following a decrease in estrogen levels, the tissues of the vagina and/or vulva thin, lose their suppleness, elasticity, and lubrication. Estrogens, the primary female hormones, are responsible for maintaining the thickness and moisture of the vaginal and vulvar walls.

This atrophy will result in a range of symptoms for the woman: dryness, irritation, pain, dyspareunia (pain during sexual intercourse) and sometimes an increased frequency of the need to urinate.

This can occur at any time in a woman's life , with the risk increasing significantly with age. It is estimated that approximately 67 to 98% of women experience vaginal atrophy during menopause. It can also occur in younger women after childbirth, during breastfeeding, while taking certain medications (acne treatments, antihistamines, or cancer treatments), or after surgical procedures.

2. What treatments are available for vaginal atrophy?

A. Traditional treatments

For many years, doctors have recommended oral or local hormonal treatments for vaginal atrophy. This is known as "Hormone Replacement Therapy" (HRT). The goal is to compensate for hormonal loss and thus relieve women's symptoms . However, these hormonal medications carry risks, particularly for some women with a history of cancer or cardiovascular disorders; therefore, it is essential to consult a doctor before considering them.

Among traditional treatments, vaginal lubricants and moisturizers , which are hormone-free, can also be mentioned. These aim to lubricate and relieve the symptoms of vaginal dryness. Among moisturizing and lubricating products, those based on hyaluronic acid are highly recommended for their long-lasting hydrating and soothing effects.

B. The new recommendations

In 2021, the French National College of Gynecologists and Obstetricians (CNGOF) issued new practical recommendations for the management of vaginal atrophy in menopausal women.

They recommend using local vaginal treatment with lubricants and moisturizers as a first-line treatment and considering hormonal treatment only as a second step if symptoms persist.

There are also new alternatives, such as laser therapy, which involves sending micro-pulses to the vaginal walls to stimulate vaginal tissue regeneration. However, this should only be considered after a doctor's evaluation and after trying lubricating and moisturizing treatments.

C. Ectoin, a patented natural and protective alternative for vaginal dryness

Many women suffering from vaginal atrophy are looking for natural alternatives to hormonal treatments. Among the natural, hydrating and protective alternatives, Ectoin, an osmoprotective molecule , was patented for use in vaginal atrophy in 2019 *.

Ectoin protects the mucous membrane and restores deep, lasting vulvovaginal hydration thanks to its humectant action, which attracts water and retains it at the very heart of the cells.

Its clinical results and tolerance in patients with vaginal dryness make it a reference molecule to offer women a natural alternative in case of vaginal atrophy.

Ectoin is found in the composition of moisturizing lubricating gels in association with hyaluronic acid, a formulation particularly interesting for immediately moisturizing and soothing intimate mucous membranes and allowing women to regain lasting intimate comfort.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not replace a consultation or advice from your doctor.