⭐ What Is GSM — and Why Does It Happen?
What many women don’t realize is that this isn’t “just dryness.” It is part of a broader medical condition known as Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM)—a collection of vaginal, vulvar, and urinary symptoms caused by declining estrogen.
As estrogen levels drop during perimenopause and menopause, the tissues of the vaginal and urinary areas begin to thin, lose elasticity, produce less natural lubrication, and become more prone to irritation. This can lead to:
Important: GSM does not improve on its own. It typically gets progressively worse without treatment, which is why early care is so important.
⭐ What Are the Best Treatments for Vaginal Dryness & GSM?
1. Low-Dose Vaginal Estrogen (Gold Standard Treatment)
This is considered the most effective and safest treatment for GSM by leading medical organizations like NAMS and ACOG. It comes in creams, tablets, or rings, and it restores vaginal moisture, thickens tissue, reduces UTIs, and improves elasticity and pleasure with extremely low systemic risk.
2. Vaginal DHEA (Prasterone)
A non-estrogen option that converts locally into estrogen inside vaginal cells, improving lubrication, elasticity, and pain during sex. It's a safe, localized option ideal for women who want to avoid systemic hormones.
3. Ospemifene (Osphena) – Oral Non-Hormonal Option
A pill that acts like estrogen in the vaginal tissue only, helping with painful sex and dryness. It's not for everyone, but a good option for those unable to use estrogen.
4. High-Quality Moisturizers & Lubricants
Moisturizers (like those with hyaluronic acid) are used regularly for everyday dryness, while lubricants (water or silicone-based) are used during intimacy to reduce friction.
5. Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy
For women with pain, tightness, or discomfort, a pelvic floor PT can help relax muscles, improve arousal, and reduce pain during penetration. It's especially effective when combined with vaginal estrogen.
6. Laser or Radiofrequency Vaginal Rejuvenation (Use Caution)
Some clinics market these devices aggressively, but the FDA has not approved them for GSM, results are mixed, and there is a potential for burns or scarring. They should only be considered after proven therapies have failed.
⭐ Can GSM Impact My Sex Life? Yes — But Treatment Restores Pleasure
Painful sex (dyspareunia) is one of the most common GSM symptoms. With proper treatment, women often notice:
- Increased natural lubrication
- Less burning or tearing
- Greater arousal and more pleasurable stimulation
- Stronger orgasms
- Ability to enjoy sex again without anxiety or pain
Sexual function is not “over” because of menopause. Treating GSM often restores sexual confidence and comfort completely.
⭐ When Should You Seek Treatment?
You should seek treatment if you have any symptoms of GSM, even if they are mild. Early intervention prevents symptoms from worsening and quickly restores your quality of life.
⭐ Where Luniran Helps
Many women don’t know what treatment is right—or safe—for their body. Luniran makes it simple. Take our free, science-backed quiz to understand your symptoms and learn which treatment options align with your body, risk factors, and goals.
Take the Free Quiz⭐ Final Takeaway
Millions of women quietly suffer with vaginal dryness and pain, thinking it’s “just aging.” But GSM is a medical condition—and one with safe, effective treatments. Your comfort, intimacy, and confidence matter. Don’t suffer in silence—the solutions are real, and help is here.