Attention, chocolate lovers: You may not be able to help yourselves. Swiss and British scientists have linked the widespread love of chocolate to a chemical "signature" that may be programmed into our metabolic systems.
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Atrophic Vaginitis
- Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
- Symptoms & Signs
- Diagnosis & Tests
- Prevention & Expectations
- Treatment & Monitoring
- Attribution
- View All
Treatment & Monitoring
What are the treatments for the condition?
HRT is the treatment for low levels of estrogen in a woman's body. Vaginal creams used to treat this condition are usually applied two or three times a week. Estrogen tablets may be given alone if the uterus has been removed. Otherwise, estrogen may be combined with progestin. Skin patches of estrogen may be used instead of pills. The patches only need to be changed once or twice a week, so they can be more convenient to use.
A woman with this condition can also use these measures to help prevent irritation of the vagina.
What are the side effects of the treatments?
Estrogen creams can cause vaginal spotting. The cream itself may also be irritating. Estrogen pills and patches may cause the following side effects:
These side effects generally go away within a month or so after starting HRT, as the body adjusts.
What happens after treatment for the condition?
Without treatment, this condition and its symptoms will not go away. With treatment, symptoms will improve for as long as the treatment lasts. Normal vaginal moisture usually returns after 2 to 4 weeks of vaginal cream therapy.
How is the condition monitored?
Once treatment has eliminated the symptoms, be sure to make follow-up visits to the doctor. At least once a year, the doctor should do a pelvic examination and physical. Report any new or worsening symptoms to the doctor.