Both hormonal and non-hormonal treatments for GSM are available. These treatments work well for people with mild and severe effects. Therefore, it’s untrue that you should only seek treatment when symptoms worsen. The earlier you start treatment, the better because you can control the effects of the treatment on your daily life.
that you may experience when suffering from GSM include:
Vaginal systems like dryness, irritation, itching, and thinning of the walls
Sexual changes like discomfort during sex, reduced libido, and little or no lubrication
Urinary changes like pain when urinating, incontinence, and infections.
Don’t wait for the symptoms to become severe. Talk to the doctor immediately if you notice a slight change in the vagina, sexual health, or the urinary system.
GSM Automatically Starts At 50
GSM can occur at any menopause stage, and not necessarily when you hit 50 years. Some people may experience it as early as 45, while the symptoms may appear in others at 55.
In line with, the average age of menopause is 48.8 years. Ethnicity, genetic variation and environmental variants are common factors that affect its occurrence. Lifestyle factors like level of activity, occupation, and smoking may also determine how soon your menopause starts.
Don’t assume age when it comes to GSM. Seek a doctor’s advice to help decide whether it s GSM, regardless of age.
GSM Symptoms Are the Same for Everyone
Menopause symptoms vary from one person to another, and the same case applies to GSM. While some women may have mild signs, others may experience severe ones that last for an extended period.
Nevertheless, vaginal dryness, itchiness, and irritation when urinating are the main signs. Some women may have mild urinary irritation, while others may suffer from incontinence. Don’t compare symptoms with another person; each body reacts differently due to environmental and hormone changes.
There’s No Treatment for GSM
The last myth we debunk is that there’s no treatment for GSM.Treatment options are there, although most reduce the discomfort, considering the chronic condition. Here are the leading solutions your doctor may recommend when suffering from GSM.
Over-the-counter creams and lubricants to reduce discomfort during intercourse
Vaginal estrogen therapy to increase estrogen levels in the vaginal area
Vaginal dilation therapy to help stretch the vagina muscles and reduces discomfort during sex
Pelvic floor muscles to strengthen the lower pelvic muscles, which may have become weak in menopause
The ideal treatment you get depends on the severity of the condition and your personal preferences. For instance, you can consider non-hormonal therapy if you are not interested in hormonal ones.
Conclusion
The transition to menopause is natural and may be characterized by unwanted effects and conditions like GSM. However, the condition doesn’t kill your sex life and doesn’t necessarily start at 50 because some people never get it.
Don’t suffer in silence when diagnosed with GSM or let the stigma affect you. Talk about it to your partner and a therapist, and start treatment to maintain a healthy life.
