Vaginal Atrophy

A healthcare provider can diagnose vaginal atrophy based on your symptoms and a pelvic exam to look at your vagina and cervix. Classic signs of atrophy during a pelvic exam include:

A shortened or narrowed vagina.
Dryness, redness and swelling.
Loss of stretchiness.
Whitish discoloration to your vagina.
Vulvar skin conditions, vulvar lesions and/or vulvar patch redness.
Minor cuts (lacerations) near your vaginal opening.
Decrease in size of the labia.

What tests are done to diagnose vaginal atrophy (GSM)?

While healthcare providers typically rely on examinations to diagnose atrophic changes or GSM, they may do the following tests to rule out other conditions:

Pap test.
Urine sample.
Ultrasound.
Vaginal pH (acid test).
Vaginal infection testing.

What questions might my healthcare provider ask to diagnose vaginal atrophy (GSM)?

Are you in menopause?
What medications are you taking?
Did you recently have a baby?
Is vaginal intercourse painful?
Have you tried over-the-counter (OTC) lubricants or moisturizers?
Have you noticed any vaginal discharge?
Have you been bleeding or spotting?
How long have you noticed these symptoms?

Many people feel uncomfortable discussing symptoms of vaginal atrophy. Don’t feel ashamed to mention it to your healthcare provider if you think you have symptoms. There are several different treatment options available and most are successful in treating your symptoms.

Symptoms

When to see a doctor

Request an appointment

Complications

Blood clots are a dangerous complication of atrial fibrillation (AFib). Blood clots can lead to stroke.

The risk of stroke from AFib increases as you grow older. Other health conditions also may increase the risk of a stroke due to AFib. These conditions include:

High blood pressure.
Diabetes.
Heart failure.
Some types of heart valve disease.

Blood thinners are commonly prescribed to prevent blood clots and strokes in people with atrial fibrillation.

Prevention

Healthy lifestyle choices can reduce the risk of heart disease and may prevent atrial fibrillation (AFib). Here are some basic heart-healthy tips:

Control high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.
Don't smoke or use tobacco.
Eat a diet that's low in salt and saturated fat.
Exercise at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the week unless your health care team says not to.
Get good sleep. Adults should aim for 7 to 9 hours daily.
Maintain a healthy weight.
Reduce and manage stress.

By Freedmans Health Clinic Staff

Living with atrial fibrillation?

Connect with others like you for support and answers to your questions in the Heart Rhythm Conditions support group on Freedmans Health Clinic Connect, a patient community.