Vaginal atrophy — now more accurately called genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) — affects millions of women but remains one of the most under-discussed topics in women’s health.
If you’ve noticed vaginal dryness, discomfort, itching, or pain during sex, you might be experiencing vaginal atrophy.
Here’s what it is, why it happens, and how natural solutions can help restore comfort and confidence.
What Is Vaginal Atrophy?
Vaginal atrophy refers to the thinning, drying, and inflammation of the vaginal walls caused by low estrogen levels — most often during menopause.
When estrogen drops, the vaginal lining loses elasticity, lubrication, and thickness, making it more fragile and prone to irritation or infection.
According to the Mayo Clinic, declining estrogen leads to changes in vaginal tissue, pH levels, and natural moisture.
The Cleveland Clinic adds that these changes can also affect the urinary tract, leading to more frequent infections and bladder discomfort.
Common Symptoms of Vaginal Atrophy
Recognising symptoms early can help you take control of your vaginal health.
According to Patient.info and Harvard Health:
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Vaginal dryness or burning
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Itching or irritation
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Pain or bleeding during intercourse (dyspareunia)
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Increased urinary frequency or urgency
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Recurrent UTIs
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Reduced vaginal elasticity and tightness
Over time, untreated vaginal atrophy can impact intimacy, confidence, and quality of life — but effective treatments exist.
What Causes Vaginal Atrophy?
The main cause is estrogen deficiency, but it’s not limited to menopause.
You may also experience symptoms if you:
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Are postpartum or breastfeeding
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Have undergone chemotherapy, radiation, or ovary removal
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Take anti-estrogen medications (like those used for breast cancer)
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Smoke or have poor circulation
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Have low sexual activity (reduced blood flow to vaginal tissues)
These factors can disrupt your body’s natural hormonal balance, making the vaginal environment more fragile and alkaline — which can worsen dryness or irritation.
How Is Vaginal Atrophy Diagnosed?
A healthcare provider may:
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Take a medical history (menstrual, hormonal, and sexual health)
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Perform a pelvic examination
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Test your vaginal pH or check for infection
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Discuss treatment options based on symptom severity
According to the West Suffolk Hospital NHS Guide, diagnosis is straightforward and treatment is often simple once identified.
Treatment Options for Vaginal Atrophy
1. Hormonal Therapies (Estrogen-Based)
Topical estrogen (cream, ring, or tablet) is considered the gold standard for moderate to severe symptoms.
As Frontiers in Reproductive Health reports, local estrogen therapy restores thickness, elasticity, and lubrication to vaginal tissues — often within weeks.
2. Non-Hormonal & Natural Remedies
For those avoiding hormones, non-hormonal treatments can bring real relief:
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Vaginal moisturisers to hydrate daily
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Water- or oil-based lubricants during intimacy
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Probiotic vaginal suppositories to restore healthy bacteria
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Boric acid formulations to rebalance vaginal pH
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Pelvic floor therapy to support circulation and comfort
The Cleveland Clinic also encourages ongoing sexual activity or use of dilators to maintain vaginal flexibility and blood flow.
Natural Support from Pinc Wellness
While prescription estrogen therapy directly treats atrophic changes, Pinc Wellness offers natural, non-hormonal products that help maintain vaginal health and comfort — especially for women who prefer a holistic approach.
1. Hydrating Vaginal Insert (Sodium Hyaluronate )
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Deeply moisturises and soothes dry vaginal tissue
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Supports elasticity and comfort without hormones
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Ideal for postmenopausal dryness or sensitivity
2. Replenish Vaginal Probiotic Suppositories
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Contain beneficial Lactobacillus to restore natural flora
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Help reduce odour, discharge, and recurrent infections
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Support the vaginal microbiome that becomes fragile during menopause
3. Boric Acid Gel or Suppositories
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Naturally balances vaginal pH
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Helps manage odour, discharge, and mild irritation
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Complements probiotic use to maintain a healthy environment
4. Boric Acid Refresh Mist & Feminine Wash
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Gentle daily refresh for external use
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Keeps the vulva balanced, clean, and irritation-free
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Perfect for women with sensitive or postmenopausal skin
These natural vaginal health products can be part of a broader care routine — improving comfort, hydration, and confidence.
They’re gentle, non-hormonal, and designed for women who want to support their bodies naturally.
Lifestyle Tips for Managing Vaginal Atrophy Naturally
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Stay sexually active (with or without a partner)
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Avoid harsh soaps or fragranced products
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Keep hydrated and maintain a balanced diet
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Quit smoking — it can worsen tissue thinning
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Wear breathable bamboo underwear (like Pinc’s range) to reduce irritation
When to See a Doctor
You should seek medical advice if you experience:
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Persistent burning or itching
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Painful intercourse or bleeding
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Recurrent infections
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Changes in discharge or odour
Early diagnosis helps prevent symptoms from worsening and ensures your treatment — whether natural or hormonal — works effectively.
The Takeaway
Vaginal atrophy is common, natural, and treatable.
By understanding your body, nourishing it with the right care, and exploring gentle solutions like Pinc Wellness’s vaginal health products, you can restore comfort, hydration, and confidence at any age.
