Vaginal atrophy is inflammation, dryness, and thinning of the vaginal walls. Natural remedies include using lubricants, exercising, and staying sexually active.

Vaginal atrophy is better known as genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM).

This happens because of decreased estrogen levels in the body, with those in postmenopausal most prone to developing this condition.

You may have vaginal atrophy, or GSM, if you experience one or more of the following symptoms:

  • vaginal dryness, burning, or itching
  • excess discharge
  • vaginal itching
  • burning or urgency with urination
  • increased urinary tract infections (UTIs)
  • incontinence
  • discomfort, dryness, or light bleeding with intercourse
  • shortening and tightening of the vaginal canal

This may happen in the 50s and 60s for many women.

Some experts estimate that about half of all postmenopausal women experience vaginal atrophy. Few women discuss this issue with their healthcare team or seek treatment, though, which makes getting accurate statistics difficult.

If GSM affects you, you can try a few treatment options at home. If your symptoms persist or worsen, you should consult your doctor.

GSM generally responds well to relatively simple treatments. Several natural or home-based remedies are available to ease discomfort and restore normal function.

Herbs and supplements

Sea buckthorn oil may be a possible alternative to traditional estrogen therapy.

This oil is rich in essential fatty acids. Participants who took the sea buckthorn oil saw improvement in vaginal elasticity and tissue integrity.

Other vitamins and supplements that may help include:

  • vitamin E
  • vitamin A
  • beta carotene
  • B vitamins
  • omega-3 fatty acids

Diet

Reaching and maintaining a healthy weight and body mass index may also help with GSM. Losing weight too quickly can backfire, though, so stick with slow and steady losses.

You may consider adding foods that contain plant estrogens, or phytoestrogens, such as soybeans, soy products, or flaxseed.

Research shows a reduction in vaginal dryness with the use of plant estrogens. You should also drink plenty of water to stay hydrated and try to limit caffeine and alcohol.

Exercise

Engaging in a regular exercise routine may promote blood flow and balance hormone levels. To start, try walking 30 minutes per day, five days per week.

Talk with your doctor about an exercise program that would be appropriate for you. As with weight loss, too much exercise can contribute to worsening vaginal dryness.

Personal care products

Avoid using douches or other hygiene products containing fragrances or other chemicals.

These products may irritate or dry out the vagina and make your symptoms worse. Try to choose personal care items that are pH-balanced.

Your doctor may suggest medications or vaginal estrogen therapy for your GSM.

This type of treatment is applied to the vaginal area via tablet, ring, or cream form. Because it’s applied directly to the vagina, there’s less chance that excess estrogen will reach other parts of the body, such as the breasts, where the hormone could do damage.

Vaginal estrogen therapy can alleviate dryness, irritation, and painful intercourse. It may even relieve other symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes, night sweats, and sleep disturbances. Women undergoing this therapy typically see results after 4 to 6 weeks.

Oral estrogen is another option, but taking the hormone orally means it can reach all parts of the body. Your doctor can explain the benefits and risks of this type of treatment.

How does vaginal atrophy affect your life?

This is not a life-threatening disease. But it can interfere with and negatively affect your quality of life, if it’s not diagnosed and treated effectively.

People who are diagnosed and treated often see improvement.

Always speak with your doctor before taking any medication for your condition. Some of these treatments may interact with certain medications.

Engaging in regular sexual activity may be one of the best defenses against GSM. Having sex with or without a partner helps to increase blood flow to your vagina, keeping the tissues healthy.

You can also try using over-the-counter (OTC) moisturizers, such as Replens or Vagisil, to moisturize your vagina. OTC lubricants, such as glycerin-free Astroglide or K-Y Jelly, may ease symptoms during intercourse.

Taking the time to become aroused before intercourse may eliminate dryness and burning by providing you with more of your body’s natural lubrication.