VAGIFEM^® estradiol/norethindrone acetate tablets

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+ About atrophic vaginitis

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Glossary terms on this page

Atrophic vaginitis
Thinning of vaginal tissues with irritation, pain and inflammation; due to loss of estrogen at menopause.
Estrogen
Hormone secreted by the ovaries that influences a woman's sexual development and menstrual cycle.
Hot flashes or hot flushes
"Heat waves" that flush the upper body and face; caused by declining levels of estrogen during perimenopause.
Menopause
The cessation of menstrual periods; occurs at the time of a woman's final menstrual period, but is determined following 12 months without a period. Average age among women is 51 years.
Menstrual
Relating to menstruation, the monthly shedding of the lining of the uterus in women of childbearing age.
Perimenopause
A transition period that includes up to six years before menopause (the time of a woman’s final menstrual period). During perimenopause, production of estrogen decreases and other physical changes begin to take place.
Symptom
Any complaint believed to be an indicator of disease. For example, vaginal dryness or irritation can be symptoms of atrophic vaginitis.
Vagina
Lower part of the birth canal; receives semen from the penis and allows menstrual flow to exit.

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Menopause FAQs

Many women beginning their menopausal years have several questions about this stage in their life. Answers to the most common questions are provided below. If you still have questions about menopause or VAGIFEM^® after reviewing the information on this site, please consult your healthcare professional.

What is menopause?

Menopause is a normal, natural event. It is marked by the occurrence of your final menstrual period. This is confirmed when you have not had a period for one year. The transitional phase before menopause is called perimenopause.

When does menopause normally occur?

For American women, the average age of menopause is 51 years.

What causes menopause to occur?

Before menopause—your final period—the ovaries gradually stop producing estrogen. This decline in the level of estrogen in your body can cause a variety of physical symptoms, including irregular periods, hot flashes, and night sweats, as well as vaginal dryness that can lead to atrophic vaginitis if untreated.