For vaginal atrophy constant washing in that area is the worst thing you can do, your doctor is right. It’s a new way of life that we have to adapt to, unfortunately.
It’s sad but we have to learn to do things differently, another luxury taken away from us in old age! There are high end products out there for intimate washing but they are expensive, I will settle for Aqueous Cream for washing, I’ve got used to it and it doesn’t cause me any problems and that’s my priority.
I did notice shaving caused my Atrophy to be more severe, the hair is there to protect. As life goes on you will get used to your new routine!
I treated myself to some nice body creams instead, just to smell nice and fresh but kept well away from intimate areas.