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Menopause is a natural part of aging, but for many women, it brings more than just hot flashes and mood changes. One of the lesser-known yet impactful conditions is Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM). It affects both the urinary and genital systems, often leading to discomfort, emotional distress, and changes in quality of life. While common, GSM is often underreported due to stigma or embarrassment—yet help is available, and effective treatments exist.
Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM) is a term used to describe a group of symptoms resulting from decreased estrogen levels during and after menopause. This hormonal shift can cause the tissues of the vagina, urethra, and bladder to become thin, dry, and less elastic. As a result, women may experience vaginal dryness, itching, burning, pain during intercourse, and urinary symptoms like urgency, frequency, or recurrent urinary tract Infection(UTIs). Nearly 50% to 70% of postmenopausal women experience some form of GSM, yet many don’t seek care—often believing these symptoms are just part of aging. The truth is: GSM is manageable and treatable, and early care can lead to real relief.
GSM is typically diagnosed through a conversation about symptoms and a simple pelvic exam. Doctors look for signs like thinning tissues, dryness, or irritation. No special tests are usually required.
You can help manage GSM symptoms by making simple lifestyle and behavior changes. For example, stay hydrated and use unscented, gentle hygiene products to avoid further irritation. Engage in regular sexual activity or vaginal stimulation to support healthy blood flow and tissue elasticity. If you're experiencing dryness, try vaginal moisturizers or lubricants regularly. Maintain a healthy weight, as excess weight may increase pelvic pressure. Lastly, avoid smoking—tobacco use can worsen tissue thinning and lower estrogen levels, making symptoms more severe.
Non-hormonal treatments are ideal for women who want relief from GSM symptoms without using estrogen-based therapies. These treatments include products that support vaginal health by addressing dryness and irritation. They help alleviate vaginal dryness and discomfort, and because they don’t involve hormones, they come with no hormonal side effects or risks. These treatments can be used long-term to maintain vaginal moisture, offering a safe and effective way to manage symptoms.
Vaginal moisturizers are specifically designed to restore moisture to the vaginal area. Regular use helps improve tissue elasticity and relieve dryness, providing long-lasting comfort. They are ideal for daily use or as needed to maintain vaginal moisture and tissue health. By improving the moisture balance and elasticity, vaginal moisturizers help reduce discomfort and enhance overall vaginal well-being, making them an essential part of managing GSM symptoms.
Non-Surgical Radiofrequency Treatment
EMFEMME 360 is an FDA-cleared, non-invasive treatment that uses radiofrequency to deliver gentle heat to the vaginal and pelvic tissues. This process promotes collagen remodelling, enhances circulation, and supports tissue tone, improving both pelvic floor strength and overall vaginal health. EMFEMME 360 is ideal for women looking to address pelvic discomfort and urinary control without surgery or downtime.
Low-dose vaginal estrogen is a targeted treatment that helps restore moisture and elasticity to vaginal and urinary tissues, offering localized relief from dryness, irritation, and discomfort associated with GSM. By delivering estrogen directly to the tissues with minimal absorption into the bloodstream, it is considered low-risk and does not increase the risk of breast cancer, making it a safe and effective option for many individuals to improve vaginal health and manage symptoms.
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