Vaginal Atrophy Specialist

Vaginal atrophy can cause considerable pain and discomfort. The providers at Embry Women’s Health provide care for women throughout the Mesa and Chandler, Arizona, areas, Barbara Lockwood WHNP and JoEllen Embry WHNP are skilled in state-of-the-art techniques to help women overcome vaginal atrophy so they can lead more comfortable lives.

Vaginal Atrophy Q & A

What is vaginal atrophy?

As women age, their levels of estrogen and progesterone drop precipitously. Vaginal atrophy is a potential side effect of this hormonal decline, causing the vaginal walls to thin out and become dry, inflamed and hypersensitive. Women with vaginal atrophy tend to experience significant discomfort during intercourse, and they’re also more likely to develop urinary tract infections and vaginal infections.

What symptoms does vaginal atrophy cause?

When atrophy is very mild, it may cause very few or even no noticeable symptoms. As the condition progresses, symptoms can include:

  • burning or itching sensations in the vagina
  • vaginal dryness
  • vaginal discharge
  • increased need to urinate or burning during urination
  • decreased natural lubrication during intercourse
  • painful intercourse
  • spotting or light bleeding following intercourse
  • tightening of the vaginal canal
  • discomfort after intercourse

Although vaginal atrophy is most common during menopause, it can also occur when breastfeeding or in women who have lower levels of estrogen.

What treatments are available for vaginal atrophy?

Treatment begins with an examination and testing to check your urine or measure the acid levels in your vagina. Blood tests may also be ordered. Based on the results of the exam, treatment options may include:

  • special moisturizers applied to the vagina every few days to help replenish natural moisture and protect the delicate lining
  • lubricants designed fir use during sexual intercourse to decrease friction and relieve discomfort
  • estrogen creams applied to the vaginal canal and developed to stimulate lubrication
  • hormone replacement therapy using estrogen pills to elevate systemic levels of estrogen

To avoid potentially serious side effects, especially if you’ve had breast cancer or have risk factors for breast cancer, you should only use vaginal lubricants as directed by our staff, and never rely on over-the-counter products, some of which may cause allergic reactions.

OUR PATIENTS SAY

I first chose to come to Embry Womens Health because it was near my home and they took my insurance. I’ve been coming back because JoEllen is AMAZING! The whole office is so welcoming and comforting, I’ve moved 20 miles away and I STILL go to see JoEllen for all of my women’s healthcare. I will literally plan my days off around an appointment so I can continue being a patient here.
I can’t say enough good things about Embry Women’s Health and hope to be able to be a patient for life!

5 Stars – Yelp – 11/13/2019

MAGGIE S.

I still love this place. It’s my second year as a patient here, and they still treat me so well. Every concern that I had was taken seriously and my doctor gave me some things to help with a couple of them. The office also isn’t really cold (which I’ve found to be a problem at some offices) so you won’t be freezing during your exam. She’s definitely the best doctor I have been to and recommend to every woman to look into coming here. Also, all of your test results are available online through a patient portal, and you can also schedule new appointments and fill out all of your patient information forms ahead of time on there. This makes checking in for your appointment super quick and easy.

5 Stars – Yelp – 10/31/2019

SHANA E.

This was my first visit at this office and it was so much better then a visit I’ve had at a different gynecologist. The ladies were genuinely friendly and helpful and all very knowledgeable. They make you feel comfortable and safe. It’s so hard to find a gynecologist that fits your needs and I’m very happy to say I found mine.

5 Stars – Yelp – 4/10/2018

KELLY M.

Insurance

Embry Women’s Health is committed to providing quality, affordable health care. We’re in-network with all major insurance plans, including Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna and UnitedHealthcare. No insurance? No problem. We offer a simple fee schedule for those who wish to pay out-of-pocket. Click the button below for our complete list and more information:

Embry Women’s Health is no longer accepting insurance and will be a self-pay practice. We understand that our decision to no longer accept insurance may come as a disappointment. However, we carefully deliberated and concluded that this change was in the best interest of our practice.

Self Pay Prices:

New Patient Appointment: $200

Established Patient Appointment: $100

Self Pay Package Pricing coming soon!

If you have insurance, we will still send your information to any laboratories so they can still bill your insurance for testing.

TESTIMONIALS

Words from our patients

JoEllen is AMAZING! Not only is she professional- she makes your whole experience comfortable. If you’re looking for a professional that never judges your situation and treats you very well- I would definitely recommend this office!

5 Stars – Yelp

Patient Image Yelp Layna HLayna H., Yelp

It is refreshing to meet a practitioner who sees the whole patient and not just a series of symptoms. JoEllen is willing to spend the time to ask questions and really listen to the responses. I have seen JoEllen several times and I have always appreciated how much time she spends with each appointment and her pragmatic approach with solutions.  I feel like my health drives the appointment and not the schedule. Finding JoEllen’s practice was like finding a needle in a haystack, a caring practitioner who encourages patients to listen to their bodies and to be their own best advocate.

5 Stars – 10/11/2018

Patient Image Kathy NKathy N., Yelp

Friendly staff. JoEllen is incredibly kind, patient and answers all of my questions whenever I see her. I don’t feel like I am being rushed when I am there, it is very nice.

5 Stars – 10/4/2018

Patient Image Ashley DAshley D., Yelp

I was super impressed. NP Eva was wonderfully personable and professional. Front desk staff (thanks, Mia) was kind and thoughtful. They have snacks and drinks in the waiting room. It’s super clean and the view is lovely. It sits right on the lake at Dobson Ranch.

5 Stars – 5/24/2021

“I started seeing Joellen earlier this year and I have had nothing but good experiences every time I have gone back. She is very down to earth and listens to any concerns. I would highly recommend Embry Womens Health.”

5 stars – 09/28/2018

Patient Image Jeannie DJeannie D., Yelp