Vaginal and urinary changes from low estrogen after menopause, such as dryness and irritation.
Also known as: GSM, vaginal atrophy, atrophic vaginitis
Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) describes the vaginal and urinary changes that can follow the decline in estrogen, including dryness, irritation, discomfort with intercourse, and urinary symptoms.
It was previously called vulvovaginal atrophy. Unlike hot flashes, GSM tends to persist or worsen over time without treatment, which is discussed with a clinician.