(BPT) - Mood swings, hot flashes and night sweats are common complaints from women going through menopause. But there is another common menopause symptom that is affecting millions of women, yet only 25 percent of sufferers seek medical help.

Vaginal discomfort, which may be caused by a condition called vaginal atrophy (VA), is the “silent” symptom of menopause that women rarely discuss because they think it is a natural part of growing older and that nothing can be done.

When in reality, VA is a chronic condition caused by a decline in estrogens and the symptoms can be severe. VA is often characterized by dryness, itching, burning or soreness in the vagina, bleeding during intercourse, pain during urination, or pain in the vagina in connection with touching and/or intercourse. If left untreated, it could lead to serious complications.