Reversing Vaginal Atrophy
Why it happens, how it affects your life, and what you can do about it
Vaginal atrophy is incredibly common — but it’s also incredibly under-discussed. Many people reach menopause and suddenly find themselves dealing with symptoms they were never warned about: dryness, irritation, burning, discomfort during sex, or even pain during routine exams.
Some are told it’s “just aging.” Others are told nothing can be done, especially if they’ve had breast cancer.
We want you to know something different:
Vaginal atrophy is real, it’s common, and it’s treatable — safely and effectively.
What Is Vaginal Atrophy?
Vaginal atrophy is a medical term describing thinning, drying, and loss of elasticity in the vaginal tissue. It happens when estrogen levels drop, which is why it’s so common during perimenopause, menopause, and after breast cancer treatment.
These changes can lead to symptoms such as:
Burning or stinging
Pain during sex or penetration
A feeling of tightness or friction
Recurrent urinary discomfort or UTIs
Spotting after sex
If this sounds familiar, you are far from alone — and you don’t have to just “live with it.”
What Can Help?
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution, and often a combination of treatments provides the most relief. The good news is that many options are low-risk, accessible, and backed by strong evidence.
1. Low-Dose Vaginal Estrogen
This is one of the most effective treatments for vaginal atrophy. Unlike systemic estrogen (pills, patches), low-dose vaginal estrogen acts locally in the vaginal tissue with no significant increase in overall estrogen levels.
It helps restore:
Moisture
Elasticity
Thickness
Comfort
Is vaginal estrogen safe for breast cancer patients?
Yes — even for people with a history of estrogen-sensitive breast cancer, when used under the guidance of an informed provider. If you’re actively being treated with an aromatase inhibitor, you may be advised to try a vaginal DHEA (natural estrogen precursor) as this has been found to be a preferable medication combination.
Breast cancer survivors deserve real options — and real relief.
2. Vaginal Moisturizers (Used Regularly)
These help hydrate and restore the vaginal tissue over time.
Moisturizers are not the same as lubricants — moisturizers provide ongoing comfort, while lubricants reduce friction during sex.
3. Lubricants (Used During Sexual Activity)
These reduce friction and make sexual activity more comfortable.
Both silicone-based and water-based options can be helpful.
4. Other Non-Hormanal Options
Here are some of the most effective evidence-based non-hormonal treatments:
Hyaluronic Acid (HA)
Hyaluronic acid is a deeply hydrating compound that binds moisture to tissue.
When used vaginally, it can:
Improve moisture
Reduce irritation
Support elasticity
Help repair fragile tissue
For some people, hyaluronic acid gels provide results comparable to vaginal estrogen — especially when used regularly.
Polynucleotides
Polynucleotides are emerging regenerative therapies that support tissue repair and collagen production.
Vaginal formulations can help:
Improve hydration
Enhance tissue strength
Reduce microtears
Support overall vaginal health
This can be particularly helpful for people with significant thinning or irritation who prefer non-hormonal treatments.
Phytoestrogens
Phytoestrogens are plant-derived compounds that have mild estrogen-like activity.
They are not the same as hormone therapy, but they can support:
Moisture
Elasticity
Comfort
Common forms include vaginal gels, topical creams, or oral supplements such as isoflavones. While they’re not as potent as prescription therapies, many people find meaningful symptom relief.
Vasodilators (Blood Flow–Enhancing Gels)
Vaginal vasodilators — such as creams that increase blood flow to the tissue — can help stimulate natural lubrication and enhance arousal-related comfort.
They may be used:
Before sexual activity
As part of ongoing tissue support
In combination with moisturizers or lubricants
Improved blood flow means improved oxygenation and better tissue health.
Vaginal Vitamin D and E
Vitamins D and E can be delivered vaginally in suppositories or oils. They help:
Reduce dryness
Support tissue healing
Improve elasticity
Soothe irritation
These vitamins can be especially helpful for people with sensitive skin or those recovering from irritation related to atrophy.
Vaginal or Oral Probiotics
Probiotics help support a healthy vaginal microbiome — which plays a major role in:
Moisture balance
pH regulation
Reducing recurrent infections
Tissue comfort
Both oral and vaginal formulations may be helpful, especially for people experiencing recurrent UTIs or yeast infections alongside vaginal atrophy.
You Deserve to Feel Comfortable in Your Body
Vaginal atrophy can affect your daily life, your relationships, and how you feel in your body. But it’s not something you need to endure.
Too often, symptoms are dismissed as “normal” or “something to put up with” — especially for people who have gone through breast cancer treatment.
At Corla Health, we believe you deserve better:
Better information
Better options
Better support
You deserve care that sees the full picture of your health history, your symptoms, and your goals.
If vaginal atrophy is affecting your comfort or your intimacy, we’re here to help you find relief — safely and compassionately.
Because thriving in your body isn’t optional.
It’s essential.