Search women’s health FAQs

What do NHS and NICE recommend first-line for GSM?

What do NHS and NICE recommend first-line for GSM? For genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM)—also called vaginal dryness/atrophy—NHS and NICE advise a stepwise start: regular vaginal…

Are results from laser/RF permanent—how long do they last?

Are results from laser/RF permanent—how long do they last? Results from vaginal laser or radiofrequency (RF) aren’t permanent. When they help genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM),…

Can I use laser/RF if I’m on HRT or local oestrogen?

Can I use laser/RF if I’m on HRT or local oestrogen? Usually, yes. Vaginal laser or radiofrequency (RF) can be combined with systemic HRT and with…

Who should avoid laser/RF (pregnancy, implants, recent surgery)?

Who should avoid laser/RF (pregnancy, implants, recent surgery)? Energy-based vaginal treatments (laser or radiofrequency) are generally not first-line for genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM). Avoid or…

How is GSM diagnosed—do I need an examination?

How is GSM diagnosed—do I need an examination? Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) is often diagnosed from your history: dryness, soreness, dyspareunia, urinary urgency/frequency, and flares…

ChatGPT can make mistakes. Check important info. See Cookie Preferences.

Thinking

Do probiotics help with GSM or recurrent infections?

Do probiotics help with GSM or recurrent infections? Do probiotics help with GSM or recurrent infections? They may help some people with recurrent bacterial vaginosis (BV)…

Is vaginal dryness linked to recurrent UTIs?

Is vaginal dryness linked to recurrent UTIs? Yes—vaginal dryness as part of genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) can raise the risk of recurrent urinary tract infections…

Can I use local oestrogen with or without HRT?

Can I use local oestrogen with or without HRT? Yes. Local vaginal oestrogen (cream, pessary/tablet, or ring) can be used on its own or alongside systemic…