What Are Genitourinary Symptoms?

Genitourinary symptoms refer to physical changes and discomfort that affect the vagina, vulva, bladder, and urinary tract—most commonly during and after menopause. These symptoms are part of what’s now called Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM), a medical term that describes a group of symptoms caused by declining estrogen levels.

As estrogen levels drop during perimenopause and menopause, the tissues in the vaginal and urinary areas become thinner, drier, and less elastic. This can lead to:

Vaginal Symptoms

  • Dryness
  • Burning or itching
  • Discomfort or pain during sex (dyspareunia)
  • Decreased lubrication
  • Tightness or shortening of the vaginal canal

Urinary Symptoms

  • Increased urgency or frequency of urination
  • Burning with urination
  • Frequent urinary tract infections (UTIs)
  • Urinary incontinence or leakage

These symptoms can be uncomfortable and even distressing—but they are common, and very treatable.

⚕️ What Causes Genitourinary Symptoms?

Estrogen plays a vital role in maintaining healthy, well-lubricated tissue in the vaginal and urinary tract areas. When estrogen declines during menopause:

  • The vaginal walls thin and produce less moisture
  • Bladder and urethral tissues weaken, leading to urinary symptoms
  • The natural balance of vaginal bacteria can shift, raising infection risk

🩺 How Are Genitourinary Symptoms Treated?

1. Vaginal Estrogen Therapy

  • Comes in creams, tablets, or vaginal rings
  • Delivers low-dose estrogen directly to the affected area
  • Relieves dryness, irritation, and pain with minimal risk

2. Non-Hormonal Options

  • Vaginal moisturizers for regular hydration
  • Lubricants for comfort during intimacy
  • Pelvic floor therapy for bladder control and support
  • Laser or radiofrequency treatments (offered at some clinics) to rejuvenate tissue

3. Systemic Hormone Therapy

If genitourinary symptoms occur alongside other menopause issues like hot flashes, systemic HRT (pills, patches, gels) may be recommended.

💬 When to See a Provider If you’re experiencing vaginal discomfort, bladder changes, or pain during intimacy, you’re not alone—and you don’t have to just live with it. At Emkes Health, we offer safe, effective treatments tailored to your needs.