Impact of vulvovaginal health on postmenopausal women: a review of surveys on symptoms of vulvovaginal atrophy

• Published in: International journal of women's health Vol. 5; no. default; pp. 437 - 447
• Main Authors: Parish, Sharon J, Nappi, Rossella E, Krychman, Michael L, Kellogg-Spadt, Susan, Simon, James A, Goldstein, Jeffrey A, Kingsberg, Sheryl A
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: New Zealand Dove Medical Press Limited 01-01-2013; Taylor & Francis Ltd; Dove Medical Press
• Subjects: Atrophy; Beliefs, opinions and attitudes; Care and treatment; Diagnosis; Health aspects; Hormone replacement therapy; Postmenopausal women; Review; Social aspects; Urinary tract infections; Vaginal diseases; hypoactive sexual desire disorder; local vaginal estrogen therapy; vulvovaginal atrophy; quality of life; urinary tract infection; health care professional
• ISSN: 1179-1411; 1179-1411
• DOI: 10.2147/IJWH.S44579

Several recent, large-scale studies have provided valuable insights into patient perspectives on postmenopausal vulvovaginal health. Symptoms of vulvovaginal atrophy, which include dryness, irritation, itching, dysuria, and dyspareunia, can adversely affect interpersonal relationships, quality of life, and sexual function. While approximately half of postmenopausal women report these symptoms, far fewer seek treatment, often because they are uninformed about hypoestrogenic postmenopausal vulvovaginal changes and the availability of safe, effective, and well-tolerated treatments, particularly local vaginal estrogen therapy. Because women hesitate to seek help for symptoms, a proactive approach to conversations about vulvovaginal discomfort would improve diagnosis and treatment.