Vulvar and vaginal atrophy (VVA) is a genuine health issue that many women face after menopause. This condition brings about uncomfortable symptoms such as pain during sex (dyspareunia), vaginal dryness, and persistent irritation. These symptoms are not just minor inconveniences; they can significantly impact a woman’s sexual life, personal relationships, and overall daily activities.
A recent study aimed to delve deeper into the experiences and perceptions of postmenopausal women regarding VVA symptoms. The research also explored their interactions with healthcare professionals (HCPs) and their understanding of the treatment options available.
The study involved an online survey conducted across the United States, reaching over 3,000 postmenopausal women who reported experiencing VVA symptoms. This represents a substantial group of women, providing valuable insights into this widespread condition. Participants were asked about their awareness of VVA, how symptoms affected their lives, their communication with healthcare providers, and their use of various treatments.
The findings revealed that the most commonly reported VVA symptoms were vaginal dryness (experienced by 55% of participants), painful intercourse (44%), and vaginal irritation (37%). For many, these symptoms had a direct negative impact on their sexual enjoyment, with 59% reporting reduced pleasure in sexual activity. Beyond sexual health, VVA symptoms also interfered with other aspects of life. Around 24% reported sleep disturbances, 23% felt a decrease in their general enjoyment of life, and 23% experienced changes in their temperament. Interestingly, a significant number of women did not connect their symptoms to menopause (only 24% made this link) or hormonal changes (just 12%).
When it comes to seeking help, just over half (56%) of the women surveyed had discussed their VVA symptoms with a healthcare professional at some point. Among all participants, 40% were using topical treatments specifically designed for VVA. This included over-the-counter (OTC) vaginal products (used by 29%) and prescription vaginal therapies (used by 11%). Among those who had consulted with an HCP, a higher percentage (62%) were using OTC products. However, OTC products were often seen as having limitations, with women citing insufficient symptom relief and inconvenience as major drawbacks. For prescription topical vaginal therapies, concerns about potential side effects and the risk of cancer were significant factors limiting their use.
In conclusion, VVA symptoms are a prevalent issue among postmenopausal women, significantly affecting their quality of life. A number of obstacles hinder effective management of VVA, including a lack of awareness about the condition itself, reluctance to discuss symptoms with healthcare providers, worries about treatment safety, inconvenience of use, and dissatisfaction with the relief provided by current treatment options. These findings highlight the need for improved education, open communication, and better treatment solutions to address the real challenges women face with vaginal atrophy after menopause.
