Post-menopausal vulvovaginal atrophy - an overview of the current treatment options

Ginekol Pol. 2018;89(1):40-47. doi: 10.5603/GP.a2018.0008.

Abstract

Sex hormone deficiency in post-menopausal women causes changes in the lower urinary tract. Vulvovaginal atrophy is a pathology resulting from those changes. VVA has a negative effect on the quality of life therefore prompting a search for new therapeutic options. The aim of this article is to summarize the current treatment modalities, both hormonal and non-hormonal for post-menopausal vaginal atrophy. Topical oestrogen therapy remains the "golden standard". Alternatives, although promising, require well-designed control studies.

Keywords: genitourinary syndrome of menopause; hormonal vaginal therapy; laser vaginal atrophy; non-hormonal vaginal therapy; vulvovaginal atrophy.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Atrophy / diagnosis
  • Atrophy / pathology
  • Atrophy / psychology
  • Female
  • Female Urogenital Diseases / diagnosis*
  • Female Urogenital Diseases / pathology
  • Female Urogenital Diseases / psychology*
  • Humans
  • Postmenopause / psychology*
  • Quality of Life
  • Vagina / pathology*
  • Vulva / pathology*