Local Hormonal Therapy for Genitourinary Menopausal Syndrome

Abstract

Aim: To justify the viability and safety of local hormonal therapy with oestrogens in genitourinary syndrome of menopause. Key points. The overall ageing of the population results in an increased number of women who have problems during menopause associated with gradual reduction and switching-off of ovarian function and cessation of oestrogen generation by ovaries. Local changes at the pelvic level (urethra, bladder, vagina) are described as genitourinary syndrome of menopause. The most effective therapies for the syndrome include local hormonal therapy with oestrogens, including oestriol which is of interest due to its specific targeted action and lack of proliferative effect on endometrium and mammary glands. The use of oestriol eliminates a number of problems caused by oestrogen insufficiency: it minimises or eliminates dyspareunea, dryness and itching in vagina and lower section of the urogenital tract, inappropriate urination, enuresis, and recurring vulvovaginitis and cystitis. Conclusion. It has been proven that the local use of oestriol is efficient and safe for the management of genitourinary syndrome of menopause. The selection of a specific medicinal product should be evidence-based and should take into account the route of administration and pharmacological properties, including preparation of the active ingredient, and excipients contributing to the overall efficiency and safety. Keywords: genitourinary syndrome, menopause, estriol, micronization.