Dr. Shraddha Goel’s Insights on GSM
The term “Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause” (GSM) denotes a substantial advancement in our understanding of the changes women experience throughout menopause. Cosmetic gynecologist and PCOS specialist Dr. Shraddha Goel stresses the significance of identifying and treating GSM in order to enhance menopausal quality of life in addition to reducing discomfort. Due to the intimate nature of its symptoms, this disorder is frequently underreported. It is associated with a variety of genitourinary tract alterations that are caused by the decline in estrogen levels that occurs with menopause. Promising outcomes have been achieved by recent therapy breakthroughs, especially non-invasive techniques such as Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) and Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF), which make effective management more accessible and less intrusive.
Understanding Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause
What is Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM)?
GSM includes a variety of symptoms that impact the vaginal and urinary tracts and can seriously hinder a woman’s day-to-day activities. The main cause of these symptoms is the decrease in estrogen levels, which affects the moisture content, flexibility, and pH balance of the urine and vaginal tissues.
Symptoms of Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause
Genital Symptoms
- Vaginal Dryness: The most prevalent complaint, which can cause pain and discomfort, especially during sexual activity.
- Vaginal Burning and Itching: These symptoms indicate vaginal atrophy and might add to pain.
- Vaginal Discharge: Changes in discharge may occur, often becoming less in volume and thinner.
Urinary Symptoms
- Greater Urgency: The urge to urinate more often and urgently.
- Recurrent Urinary Tract Infections: Women are more vulnerable to infections because of variations in the pH and flora in the vagina.
- Urinary Incontinence: Loss of control over one’s bladder, often brought on by stress (coughing, sneezing) or an urge.
Though frequent, the severity of these symptoms might vary widely and is not always present. Proactively addressing them has the potential to improve general health and quality of life both during and after menopause.
Latest Treatment Options for Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause
Conventional Treatments
- Topical Estrogens: Often given to improve the health of vaginal tissue, but not all women are suited for them and they need to be used consistently.
- Systemic Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): While it has the potential to reduce symptoms more broad, it also comes with some risks and side effects.
- Moisturizers and Lubricants: There are non-hormonal treatments that help relieve some dryness and discomfort sensations.
New Non-Invasive Therapies: PRP and PRF
The development of Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) and Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) therapies is emphasised by Dr. Shraddha Goel as a novel approach to treating the symptoms of GSM. Since the patient’s own blood is used to create these treatments, there is little chance of an allergic reaction or other negative side effects, making them safe and very effective.
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP)
A tiny amount of the patient’s blood is drawn for platelet-rich plasma (PRP), which is then processed. Growth factors abound in this concentrated plasma, which when injected into the vaginal tissue can promote cellular healing and regeneration. This therapy works very well to improve natural lubrication, suppleness, and rejuvenate the vaginal walls.
Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF)
PRP has evolved into PRF. It is a second-generation platelet concentrate that contains leukocytes and cytokines in addition to platelets, all of which are essential for tissue regeneration. PRF releases growth factors gradually, which may have longer-lasting advantages for tissue regeneration and healing.
CO2 Laser Therapy and Radiofrequency Treatments
CO2 laser therapy and radiofrequency (RF) treatments are emerging as effective solutions for genitourinary syndrome of menopause. Both methods utilize energy to stimulate collagen production and improve vaginal tissue health, enhancing thickness, elasticity, and natural lubrication without hormonal intervention. These treatments provide significant relief by rejuvenating the affected areas and alleviating symptoms of dryness.
The Advantages of PRP and PRF Treatments
- Non-Invasive: These procedures require neither surgery nor a long recovery period, involving minimally invasive injections.
- Extremely Effective: Many patients have reported notable changes in moisture, pain relief, and general vaginal health as a result of these treatments, which have demonstrated high efficacy rates in easing the symptoms of GSM.
- Safe: There is a much lower chance of an allergic response or infection because PRP and PRF are generated from the patient’s own blood.
- Quick Recovery: Following the surgery, patients can resume their regular activities due to the rapid recovery period.
The Importance of a Personalized Approach in GSM Treatment
There is rarely a one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to GSM management. The importance of a customised treatment strategy that takes into account each woman’s particular medical history, the severity of her symptoms, and her lifestyle is emphasised by Dr. Shraddha Goel. Since different people may respond differently to therapies such as PRF and PRP, it is critical for medical professionals to regularly monitor side effects and modify treatment plans as necessary. In order to provide comprehensive care, medical therapies should be supplemented with lifestyle counseling and psychological support. Clinicians can more successfully reduce symptoms and increase patient comfort and satisfaction with their care by customising therapy to each woman’s unique needs.
Long-term Management and Lifestyle Adjustments
Managing GSM effectively also involves making certain lifestyle changes that can help reduce symptoms and enhance general vaginal health. Important factors include staying hydrated, eating a balanced diet, and engaging in regular physical activity. Additionally, there are also benefits of quitting smoking and reducing stress levels through methods like yoga and meditation. In the long term, these lifestyle modifications may help reduce GSM symptoms and improve quality of life in combination with medication interventions during and after menopause.
Advancing Research and Future Directions in GSM Treatment
Innovative therapy options are expanding along with the field of menopause and genitourinary health research. The encouraging outcomes of PRF and PRP treatments open the door for additional research and the creation of fresh therapeutic approaches. Future studies might concentrate on creating completely new non-invasive alternatives that could provide relief without the need for hormonal manipulations, or they might combine these therapies with existing treatments to increase their efficacy. The objective is to continue making progress towards not just treating GSM more successfully but also better understanding its mechanics, which will eventually result in improved menopausal women’s care models and preventative measures.
Conclusion
Although genitourinary syndrome of menopause can have a major negative impact on a woman’s quality of life, advances in medical care are making the disease more tolerable. Women now have excellent alternatives because to the knowledge of experts like Dr. Shraddha Goel and cutting-edge therapies like PRF and PRP. Menopause can be more comfortably and confidently navigated by women if they identify the symptoms early and discuss the best treatment options with healthcare specialists.
