How Vaginal Atrophy Can Lead to Recurrent UTIs

“I had a hysterectomy in my late 40s. Since then, sex has become painful, and we’ve become sexually inactive…”

A woman came to our clinic, not for pain or intimacy, but because of repeated urinary tract infections (UTIs).

During the exam, we found her vaginal pH was 7.5, and her vaginal health index was low.

Using a camera, we observed thin, fragile vaginal tissue—so delicate that it bled just from gentle contact.

“Everything changed after the hysterectomy…”

Some women feel just fine after a hysterectomy. But others, like this patient, experience significant changes.

Removing the uterus may disrupt vaginal blood flow—especially via the descending branches of the uterine artery. This can lead to vaginal atrophy, dryness, and even pain during intercourse.

In her case, the pain led to sexual avoidance, and over time, a deep emotional wound.

As we reviewed her vaginal images together, she wept:

“It wasn’t supposed to be like this…”

As healthcare providers, what can we do?

We must always ask:

How can we better support women after hysterectomy so they don’t have to face this kind of pain and isolation?

But for those already experiencing symptoms, we don’t need “what ifs.”

We need real strategies—starting now.

A Strategy to Restore Vaginal Health

To prevent further UTIs and hopefully revive intimacy if she desires, we discussed a personalized plan:

• Local estrogen therapy

• Vaginal moisturizers

• IntimaLase® laser therapy (starting with low energy settings)

→ To gently stimulate collagen, improve tissue elasticity and blood flow

These treatments not only help with infection prevention, but also support the return of comfort and confidence.

Let’s stop blaming ourselves.

“Why didn’t I ask for help sooner?”

“Why is this happening to me?”

You don’t need to carry those questions alone.

Whether it’s pain, dryness, or feeling disconnected from your partner—there is help, and there is hope.

Let’s take a step forward, together.

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