Atrophic vaginitis

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Causes of painful intercourse

Female reproductive anatomy

Normal uterine anatomy (cut section)

Uterus

Atrophic vaginitis is an inflammation of the vagina due to thinning and shrinking tissues and a decrease in lubrication.

Atrophic vaginitis is typically caused by a decrease in estrogen. Estrogen levels normally drop after menopause. The disorder may occur in younger women who have had surgery to remove their ovaries. Some women develop the condition immediately after childbirth or while breastfeeding, since estrogen levels are lower at these times.

Review Date: 11/08/2006
Reviewed By: Audra Robertson, MD, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.