A new name for vaginal atrophy: Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (Harvard Health)

Tier 1: Established: peer-reviewed research or government health authority
Publisher: Harvard Health Publishing · Published: November 1, 2025 · Accessed: August 8, 2026

Visit the source ↗

Claims this source supports

• Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) is the newer name for what was once called vaginal atrophy; it reflects that declining estrogen affects not just the vagina but also the vulva, urethra, and bladder, and it likely affects up to 85% of women in midlife and beyond.
• Unlike hot flashes, which tend to improve with time, GSM symptoms can be progressive and continue to get worse; about 70% of women with signs and symptoms of GSM never discuss it with a clinician.
• GSM symptoms include vaginal thinning and dryness, burning and irritation, decreased lubrication, pain during intercourse, difficulty reaching orgasm, urinary urgency and frequency, bleeding after sexual activity, pelvic pain or pressure, and a higher risk of urinary tract infections.
• If left untreated, the vaginal opening can narrow over time, and the inner labia can diminish in size or completely retreat; recurrent UTIs that begin in the bladder can, if untreated, affect the kidneys and worsen kidney function.
• First-line options for milder symptoms are nonhormonal vaginal lubricants for sexual activity and longer-acting vaginal moisturizers used a couple of times a week; prescription estrogen creams, rings, and tablets that deliver estrogen directly to vaginal tissue are considered the gold standard, and DHEA can also help – all improve tissue quality and help restore normal vaginal pH.
• Women should avoid harsh or highly scented soaps and cleansers around the vulva and vagina, and should not wait for an annual exam – they can make an appointment specifically to start the conversation about GSM symptoms.