What changes can menopause cause in the vagina?

During menopause, the significant decline in estrogen production leads to several physiological changes in the vagina. The vaginal mucosa becomes thin, dry, and atrophic, a condition often referred to as atrophic vaginitis.12

These changes can have the following effects:

• Increased susceptibility to infection: The thinning and drying of the vaginal surface membrane make the tissue more fragile and increase the likelihood of developing vaginitis.1
• Painful intercourse: Many women experience dyspareunia, or painful sexual intercourse, due to these tissue changes.2

These symptoms can often be effectively managed through hormone replacement therapy, which helps restore the protective surface of the vaginal tissue.12