Local Estrogen/DHEA Therapy
Local estrogen therapy is the most common treatment option for GSM. Low-dose vaginal estrogen therapy involves the insertion of estrogen supplement directly into the vagina. There are different forms of vaginal estrogen which include a suppository, an insert, or a ring, all of which are inserted into the vaginal canal.
In a review where researchers analyzed 44 studies for the effectiveness of vaginal estrogen in treating GSM. It was discovered that vaginal estrogen improved most of the symptoms such as vaginal dryness, urinary urgency, painful intercourse, and incontinence. In addition, vaginal estrogen also helped reduce the frequency of urinary tract infections associated with this condition.
Local administration of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) [4] has also been suggested to help improve GSM symptoms. DHEA is a hormone metabolized to estrogen in the bloodstream, which can help to naturally increase estrogen levels. Based on research, DHEA may also help increase sexual arousal and increase libido in people with GSM.