Little-known condition that's often mistaken for thrush - full list of symptoms
It's more important than ever that we continue to look after ourselves, especially when it comes to women's health.
As Endometriosis Awareness Month begins, keeping regular check ups, having smear tests, or getting help with conditions such as the menopause should be at the forefront of our minds. But it's possible that there are some relatively unknown conditions you may not have even heard of.
According to the British Society of Sexual Medicine, studies showed around 70 per cent of women have symptoms of a condition known as genitourinary syndrome of menopause, or GSM, yet only seven per cent receive treatment. Dr Susanna Unsworth, a resident gynaecologist at INTIMINA, : "I see so many women who have treated their "thrush" multiple times and it doesn't get better, because it's not thrush!"
She told Metro.co.uk: "[GSM] can present with a number of issues including vaginal dryness, soreness, itching and pain on intercourse. Sometimes it can cause increased vaginal discharge or recurrent urine infections. It is often misdiagnosed as thrush, but won't get better with the usual treatment. Or, it may result in someone getting prescribed multiple courses of antibiotics to treat urine infections."
What is genitourinary syndrome of menopause or GSM?
The genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) is a condition that describes various symptoms and signs linked to physical changes of the vulva, vagina, and lower urinary tract. It's sometimes also known as vaginal atrophy, reports the Liverpool Echo. This happens when the walls of your vagina start to thin, dry out and even get inflamed because your body isn't making as much oestrogen.
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You can get GSM after the menopause, but other things can cause it too if they lead to low levels of oestrogen. These include pregnancy, hormonal contraceptives, breastfeeding, antidepressants, having a hysterectomy and chemotherapy. The Royal United Hospitals Bath NHS Foundation Trust has also said that smoking can increase your risk of getting GSM. This is because it makes your blood circulation worse, which means the vagina and other tissues don't get enough oxygen.
Tissue thinning happens when blood flow to a certain area goes down.
Signs and symptoms of genitourinary syndrome of menopause:
You might have genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) if you notice:
- Thinning of the vaginal walls
- Shortening and tightening of the vaginal canal
- Lack of vaginal moisture (vaginal dryness)
- Vaginal burning (inflammation)
- Spotting of blood after intercourse (always see your GP for advice if this occurs)
- Discomfort or pain during intercourse (regular sexual activity helps to keep vaginal tissues healthy)
- Pain or burning with urination
- More frequent urinary tract infections
- Urinary incontinence (involuntary leakage)
- Urinary frequency
If you need treatment, the Royal United Hospital Bath NHS Foundation Trust says you can buy moisturisers or water-based lubricants over the counter to help with dryness. But if your symptoms are really bad, a doctor might suggest a topical oestrogen.
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