Which statement about GSM local therapies is true?

Which statement about GSM local therapies is true?

• A. Vaginal estrogen and moisturizers are local GSM therapies
• B. Systemic hormone therapy is a local GSM therapy
• C. Oral NSAIDs treat GSM locally
• D. Vaginal testosterone is a standard local therapy

Answer: (A)

Local GSM therapies act directly on the vaginal tissues to address atrophy and dryness without relying on systemic distribution. Vaginal estrogen provides estrogen directly to the vaginal mucosa, improving thickness, lubrication, elasticity, and overall mucosal health. Moisturizers and lubricants are non-hormonal options that hydrate and reduce discomfort during intercourse. Both fit the definition of local therapies because their effects are concentrated in the genitourinary tract with minimal systemic impact. Systemic hormone therapy, while it may improve vaginal symptoms, acts on the whole body and is not considered a local therapy. Oral NSAIDs do not address the mucosal changes of GSM and are not intended as GSM treatments. Vaginal testosterone is not a standard, widely approved local therapy for GSM, and its use is not routine in guideline recommendations.

Local GSM therapies act directly on the vaginal tissues to address atrophy and dryness without relying on systemic distribution. Vaginal estrogen provides estrogen directly to the vaginal mucosa, improving thickness, lubrication, elasticity, and overall mucosal health. Moisturizers and lubricants are non-hormonal options that hydrate and reduce discomfort during intercourse. Both fit the definition of local therapies because their effects are concentrated in the genitourinary tract with minimal systemic impact.

Systemic hormone therapy, while it may improve vaginal symptoms, acts on the whole body and is not considered a local therapy. Oral NSAIDs do not address the mucosal changes of GSM and are not intended as GSM treatments. Vaginal testosterone is not a standard, widely approved local therapy for GSM, and its use is not routine in guideline recommendations.