Which statement about GSM?

Which statement about GSM?

• A. GSM is caused by estrogen deficiency and includes vaginal dryness and urinary symptoms
• B. GSM is caused by progesterone excess
• C. GSM is a dermatologic condition unrelated to hormones
• D. GSM is solely caused by age-related skin thinning

Answer: (A)

GSM, or genitourinary syndrome of menopause, arises from decreased estrogen after menopause. Estrogen deficiency thins and dries the vaginal and urethral mucosa, reduces lubrication, and alters the vaginal pH and flora. These changes lead to symptoms such as vaginal dryness, irritation, dyspareunia, burning, and urinary symptoms like urgency, dysuria, and recurrent UTIs. This makes the statement that GSM is caused by estrogen deficiency and includes vaginal dryness and urinary symptoms the best description. Progesterone excess is not the driver of GSM, and it isn’t a dermatologic condition unrelated to hormones. While aging contributes, GSM is primarily a consequence of hypoestrogenism rather than solely age-related skin thinning.

GSM, or genitourinary syndrome of menopause, arises from decreased estrogen after menopause. Estrogen deficiency thins and dries the vaginal and urethral mucosa, reduces lubrication, and alters the vaginal pH and flora. These changes lead to symptoms such as vaginal dryness, irritation, dyspareunia, burning, and urinary symptoms like urgency, dysuria, and recurrent UTIs. This makes the statement that GSM is caused by estrogen deficiency and includes vaginal dryness and urinary symptoms the best description.

Progesterone excess is not the driver of GSM, and it isn’t a dermatologic condition unrelated to hormones. While aging contributes, GSM is primarily a consequence of hypoestrogenism rather than solely age-related skin thinning.