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Should I Use Vaginal Estrogen for Menopause Symptoms?
The New York Times • • health
Key Points:
- Vaginal estrogen products, available as creams, rings, and tablets, are effective in treating menopause-related symptoms such as vaginal dryness, pain, and urinary tract infections.
- These symptoms, known as genitourinary syndrome of menopause (G.S.M.), result from decreased estrogen levels causing vaginal tissue to become drier, thinner, and less elastic.
- The FDA removed the black box warning on estrogen products last year, which previously cautioned about risks of cancer and blood clots, leading to increased acceptance of vaginal estrogen treatments.
- Vaginal estrogen can improve vaginal moisture and elasticity, relieve pelvic pain, and reduce urinary tract infections in appropriate patients.
- Women experiencing painful intercourse, vulvar discomfort, or urinary symptoms related to menopause may benefit from discussing vaginal estrogen treatment with their healthcare provider.
