How to prepare for a video visit about Atrophic Vaginitis (Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause)

Audience: adult

Atrophic Vaginitis, also known as Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause, is a common condition affecting many women after menopause. It happens when the tissues of the vagina and urinary tract become thinner and drier due to lower estrogen levels. This can cause symptoms like dryness, burning, discomfort during sex, and urinary issues. Preparing for a video visit with your healthcare provider can help you get the most out of your appointment. During the visit, your provider will ask about your symptoms, medical history, and may suggest treatments or further tests. Telemedicine can be a convenient way to discuss your concerns, but some situations may require an in-person exam. This guide helps you understand what to expect, how to prepare, and when to seek urgent care.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Heavy vaginal bleeding or bleeding after sex — seek in-person care immediately.
• Severe pelvic or abdominal pain accompanied by fever — get urgent medical evaluation.
• Foul-smelling vaginal discharge or sudden worsening of symptoms — contact healthcare provider promptly.

What telemedicine can do

• Discussing symptoms and medical history related to atrophic vaginitis.
• Providing education about the condition and treatment options.
• Recommending over-the-counter products like vaginal moisturizers or lubricants.
• Prescribing medications when appropriate and safe to do so remotely.
• Guiding when to seek in-person exams or tests.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Performing physical vaginal or pelvic examinations.
• Collecting laboratory samples or cultures.
• Diagnosing complex or unclear cases that need direct examination.
• Managing emergencies or severe complications requiring immediate care.

What is Atrophic Vaginitis (Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause)?

Atrophic Vaginitis is a condition caused by decreased estrogen levels after menopause. This leads to thinning, drying, and inflammation of the vaginal and urinary tract tissues. Common symptoms include vaginal dryness, itching, burning, pain during sex, and urinary problems like urgency or infections. It is a normal part of aging for many women but can affect quality of life.

How Telemedicine Can Help

A video visit allows you to talk with a healthcare provider about your symptoms without traveling to a clinic. Your provider can review your history, discuss symptoms, suggest treatments such as vaginal moisturizers or hormone therapy, and decide if further tests or in-person visits are needed. Telemedicine offers privacy and convenience, especially for sensitive topics like vaginal health.

What to Expect During Your Video Visit

Your provider will ask detailed questions about your symptoms, sexual health, and any urinary issues. They may review your medical history and medications. While they cannot perform a physical exam through video, they can guide you on next steps. You might be advised to have an in-person exam or lab tests if needed.

How to Prepare for Your Video Visit

\1

When to Seek Urgent Care

If you experience heavy vaginal bleeding, severe pelvic pain, fever, or foul-smelling discharge, seek in-person medical care promptly. These may be signs of infection or other serious conditions that require immediate attention.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Choose a private, quiet space with reliable internet for your video visit.
• Test your device’s camera and microphone before the appointment.
• Write down your symptoms, including how long you have had them and their severity.
• List all current medications, supplements, and any allergies.
• Prepare questions or concerns you want to discuss with your provider.
• Have your medical history and any previous test results available if possible.

After your tele-visit

• Follow your provider’s recommendations for treatment and medication use.
• Schedule any recommended in-person exams or lab tests.
• Monitor your symptoms and note any changes or side effects.
• Contact your healthcare provider if symptoms worsen or new symptoms develop.
• Maintain regular follow-up appointments as advised.
• Practice recommended vaginal care, such as using moisturizers or avoiding irritants.

FAQs

What causes Atrophic Vaginitis?

Atrophic Vaginitis is caused mainly by decreased estrogen levels after menopause. This hormone change leads to thinning and drying of the vaginal and urinary tract tissues.

Can Atrophic Vaginitis be treated through telemedicine?

Many aspects can be discussed and managed through telemedicine, including symptom review and treatment recommendations. However, some cases may require an in-person exam for diagnosis or treatment.

What treatments are commonly recommended?

Treatments often include vaginal moisturizers, lubricants for sexual activity, and sometimes low-dose vaginal estrogen therapy. Your provider will discuss options suitable for you.

When should I see a doctor in person?

If you have severe symptoms, unusual bleeding, pain, or signs of infection, you should seek in-person care. Also, if symptoms do not improve with initial treatment, an exam may be needed.

Sources

1. Atrophic Vaginitis — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine / National Institutes of Health.
2. Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause: Management — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
3. Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause — Mayo Clinic.
4. Menopause and Your Health — National Library of Medicine.

This telemedicine guidance is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for in-person medical care. If you have urgent symptoms or concerns, please seek immediate medical attention from a healthcare provider in person.