Research · PMID 42454524
Reviewed by Neal Rouzier, MD, Preventive Medicine · Sep 2026
Assessment and management of dyspareunia in peri- and postmenopausal women: A phenotype-based gynecologic approach.
International journal of gynaecology and obstetrics: the official organ of the International Federation of Gynaecology and Obstetrics · July 2026 · Marek Broul, Marcel Vančo, Jaroslava Banýrová, Aneta Hujová
What this study found
Dyspareunia in peri- and postmenopausal women is common, clinically consequential, and often undertreated in gynecologic practice. Although genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) is a frequent contributor, intercourse-related pain may also reflect vestibular, pelvic floor, dermatologic, inflammatory, treatment-related, and psychosocial factors.
How RAGMD uses this study
Clinical questions this paper informs
Synthesis lives on the evidence question — this page shows where the study sits in that analysis.
Primary study
Does low-dose vaginal estrogen carry significant systemic risks?
Low-dose vaginal estrogen for genitourinary syndrome of menopause achieves local benefit with minimal systemic absorption in most women. Progestogen is generally not required for endometrial protection at standard low doses.
Open evidence analysisPrimary study
What is the evidence for treating genitourinary syndrome of menopause?
Low-dose vaginal estrogen effectively treats vaginal dryness, dyspareunia, and urinary symptoms of genitourinary syndrome of menopause with minimal systemic exposure. Regular reassessment of endometrial safety applies at higher cumulative doses.
Open evidence analysis