Conditions › Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM)

Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM) – Specialist Care in London

Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM) is a chronic condition affecting postmenopausal women, caused by reduced oestrogen levels. It can lead to symptoms such as vaginal dryness, burning, itching, painful intercourse, and urinary problems including urgency and recurrent infections. At Skinhorizon, we offer expert diagnosis and personalised treatments to restore comfort and improve quality of life.

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Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause at a Glance

What is Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM)?	A collection of symptoms and signs affecting the vagina, vulva, and urinary tract due to reduced oestrogen levels after menopause.
What are the symptoms of GSM?	Vaginal dryness, itching, burning, painful intercourse, reduced lubrication, urinary urgency, frequency, and recurrent urinary tract infections.
Who gets GSM?	Most commonly postmenopausal women, but it may also affect women after surgical menopause or cancer treatments that reduce hormones.
Why is it important to treat GSM?	Untreated GSM can cause persistent discomfort, relationship difficulties, recurrent urinary infections, and reduced quality of life.
How is GSM diagnosed?	A clinical assessment including symptom history, physical examination, and sometimes urine or swab tests to rule out infection.
How is GSM treated?	Treatment includes vaginal moisturisers, lubricants, local oestrogen therapy, and laser or energy-based therapies to restore tissue health.
What complications can GSM cause?	Recurrent urinary tract infections, painful intercourse, chronic irritation, and significant impact on sexual and urinary health.

What is Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause?

Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM) describes the group of symptoms and physical changes that occur in the vagina, vulva, and lower urinary tract due to oestrogen deficiency. It replaces the older term “atrophic vaginitis” and highlights that this is a chronic condition with both genital and urinary involvement.

Causes and risk factors

After menopause, natural oestrogen levels fall, leading to thinning of the vaginal lining, loss of elasticity, reduced blood supply, and decreased lubrication. Risk factors include:

Natural menopause
Surgical menopause (removal of ovaries)
Cancer treatments such as chemotherapy or radiotherapy
Anti-oestrogen medications
Smoking (which accelerates oestrogen loss)

Symptoms

Women with GSM may experience:

Vaginal dryness, burning, or itching
Painful sexual intercourse (dyspareunia)
Reduced arousal or lubrication
Urinary urgency, frequency, and incontinence
Recurrent urinary tract infections

Diagnosis

Diagnosis is clinical, based on symptoms and examination findings such as thinning of the vaginal lining, reduced elasticity, or pallor. Urine or swab tests may be taken to exclude infection if symptoms overlap.

Consultant-Led GSM Treatment in Central London

Book discreet, expert care in Maida Vale for GSM symptoms including vaginal dryness, irritation, and urinary discomfort. Restore confidence and comfort today.

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Treatment

Treatment is tailored to symptom severity and may include:

Vaginal moisturisers and lubricants: Provide temporary relief from dryness and discomfort.
Local oestrogen therapy: Restores vaginal tissue health, improves elasticity, and reduces urinary symptoms.
Systemic hormone replacement therapy (HRT): May be appropriate for women with other menopausal symptoms.
Energy-based treatments: Vaginal laser or radiofrequency devices may help regenerate tissue in selected cases.

Prognosis

With appropriate treatment, most women experience significant relief from symptoms and improved quality of life. As GSM is chronic, symptoms may recur if treatment is discontinued.

Your first visit — what to expect

Assessment: Detailed review of symptoms, history, and examination.
Investigations: Urine or swab tests if infection is suspected.
Treatment plan: Discussion of lifestyle measures, local treatments, and medical options.
Follow-up: Monitoring of progress and adjustments to treatment as needed.

Reviewed by: Dr Mohammad Ghazavi, Consultant Dermatologist
Skinhorizon Clinic, 4 Clarendon Terrace, Maida Vale, London W9 1BZ
Last reviewed: 21 August 2025

Experiencing discomfort or urinary symptoms after menopause? Get expert diagnosis and effective treatment for GSM at Skinhorizon Clinic.

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GSM FAQs

Is GSM the same as vaginal atrophy?

GSM replaces the older term “vaginal atrophy” because it includes both genital and urinary symptoms, not just vaginal changes.

Can GSM be treated without hormones?

Yes, vaginal moisturisers, lubricants, and non-hormonal therapies can provide relief. However, local oestrogen is often the most effective treatment.

Does GSM go away on its own?

No, GSM is a chronic condition and symptoms typically worsen without treatment.

Is local oestrogen safe?

Yes, low-dose local oestrogen is generally safe and delivers minimal absorption into the bloodstream, but medical assessment is important.

Can GSM affect sexual relationships?

Yes, GSM can cause pain during intercourse and reduced sexual satisfaction, but treatment can restore comfort and intimacy.

Disclaimer: The information above is provided for general education only and should not be taken as medical advice for any individual case. A consultation with a qualified healthcare professional is required to assess suitability, risks, and expected outcomes.

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