CU Anschutz researchers develop potential nonhormonal therapy to repair vaginal tissue damaged by menopause
University of Colorado AnschutzPeer-Reviewed Publication
Researchers at the University of Colorado Anschutz have developed a promising nonhormonal therapy for women experiencing Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM). GSM is a common chronic condition caused by declining estrogen levels that affects the vulva, vagina and urinary tract, leading to symptoms such as vaginal dryness, painful intercourse, and recurrent vaginal and urinary tract infections.
Unlike over-the-counter treatments that may provide some temporary symptom relief, the new therapy is designed to restore estrogen signaling only within vaginal tissue, without exposing the rest of the body to estrogen.
In a preclinical animal study, the treatment restored the structure and function of vaginal tissue lost through estrogen deficiency, suggesting a potential way to address the underlying cause of GSM rather than simply managing its symptoms.
The findings were published today in Menopause.
“For too many women, the current options are either products that only provide temporary relief or hormone-based treatments they may not feel comfortable using,” said the paper’s senior author Steve Nordeen, PhD, professor emeritus, department of pathology at the CU Anschutz School of Medicine.
An estimated 50% to 70% of women experiencing natural or medically induced menopause develop one or more symptoms of GSM.
- Journal
- Menopause