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Treating Vaginal Infections
I had a hysterectomy last year for endometrial cancer, and ever since I've been having vaginal itching and dryness, what can I use
( 4 Mar 2010)
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The dryness and itching that you are experiencing is known as vaginal atrophy or atrophic vaginitis. This is a very common side effect of a hysterectomy. This condition is due to the decreased levels of estrogen in vaginal tissues.
In addition to this, the decreased lubrication leads to an increased risk of vaginal infections. If your estrogen levels continue to decrease you may start to experience hot flashes too. You will need to go in for a complete check up so that your doctor can make an accurate diagnosis and determine whether you require treatment.
Vaginal Estrogen is considered to be the most effective treatment for the side effects associated with a hysterectomy. The regular use of estrogen creams helps to decrease the frequency of UTIs (urinary tract infections) which often occur after a hysterectomy. It also helps to prevent osteoporosis and depression. Vaginal tablets containing estrogen provide the necessary amounts of estrogen to prevent and treat vaginal atrophy. You will need to use these tablets on a daily basis for the first week or two after which you will need to use it just once or twice a week. An estrogen vaginal ring helps to replace and replenish estrogen in vaginal tissues. These rings are very convenient to use as they only have to be inserted and then replaced after 3 months or so – depending on the instructions.
There are also transdermal gels and transdermal patches that are meant to treat moderate to mild symptoms. These patches offer quick results and can be applied to the inner arms or behind the knees. You may experience slight skin irritation when you first use a patch but this is generally a reaction to the adhesive used in the patches. An estrogen transdermal gel on the other hand is much easier to use. You will need to rub this lotion on your thighs and calves at least once a day for the first few weeks.
There are also several home remedies for vaginal dryness and itching that you can use in order to deal with the temporary irritation. Since your symptoms are not very severe, you can use a vaginal lubricant to prevent excessive drying. A water-soluble lubricant would be better option than an oil-based lubricant. You can also make your own lubricant by soaking a teaspoon of psyllium husk in half a cup of water. Allow it to stand undisturbed for about 20 minutes and then strain the liquid. This liquid contains a significant amount of mucilage which is very similar in texture to vaginal fluids. You can mix equal amounts of coconut water and this liquid and use this mixture as a topical lubricant. Coconut milk is rich in several vitamins and nutrients that will help to soothe your inflamed skin.
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answered by G M on 4 Mar 2010, 7:50:34
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