205 The Truth About Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause and Treatment Options

Show Notes: 

In this episode, we explore Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM), a condition that affects many women during menopause. GSM encompasses a range of symptoms, including vaginal dryness, urinary tract infections, and vaginal infections, often resulting from hormonal changes, particularly the drop in estrogen. We delve into the causes of GSM, its impact on a woman’s well-being, and the various treatment options available to alleviate the symptoms, improve sexual health, and enhance overall quality of life.

 

Key Takeaways:

• Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM) is Common but Often Underdiagnosed: Many women experience symptoms like vaginal dryness, urinary tract infections, and vaginal infections during menopause due to hormonal changes. These symptoms result from decreased estrogen, which affects vaginal tissue and pH balance, making women more susceptible to infections.

• Testosterone Can Be Effective for Low Libido but Faces Barriers: Testosterone therapy has proven benefits for improving sexual health and libido in women, but there is no FDA-approved testosterone treatment specifically for women. This leaves many women relying on compounded versions, which can be difficult to access, expensive, or carry risks if not properly dosed.

• Personalized Menopause Care and Communication are Crucial: Open, effective communication between women and healthcare providers is key to addressing menopause symptoms. Women are encouraged to advocate for themselves and explore personalized treatment plans that can improve their quality of life during this transition.

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Timeline:

(00:03:04) Empowering Patients through Personalized Menopause Care Communication:

• The importance of open communication between healthcare providers and patients, leading to better treatment decisions.

(00:15:18) Menopause Care: Misdiagnosis and Knowledge Gaps:

• How lack of awareness and underdiagnosis can affect the treatment of menopausal symptoms.

(00:18:47) Genital Urinary Syndrome of Menopause Treatment:

• A deep dive into GSM, its causes, and treatment options for vaginal dryness, urinary issues, and sexual pain.

(00:21:33) Neurochemistry-Focused Solutions in Women's Sexual Health:

• Exploring the role of neurochemistry in sexual health, including hormonal treatments like testosterone.

(00:26:37) Combatting Perimenopausal Health Challenges with Prevention:

• Prevention strategies for managing health issues during perimenopause and menopause.

About Our Guest: Find out more about Dr. Javaid here.

Additional Resources:

• Feeling overwhelmed by life, work, family…menopause? It’s time to pause, breathe, and focus on YOU. Planted and Restored is a 3-day Christian retreat designed to help you reset your approach to self-care, giving you the space to reflect on how to prioritize your health and well-being. Through guided sessions on nutrition, prayer, and reflection, you’ll gain clarity on how to integrate healthier habits into your everyday life without compromising your responsibilities.  Join the waitlist today: hellohotflash.com/retreat
• Check out my limited series podcast "Christian Women and Menopause" for Bible-based strategies on dealing with menopause symptoms like s