When should someone consider seeking treatment for GSM rather than waiting it out?

Someone should consider seeking treatment for Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM) rather than waiting it out when symptoms like vaginal dryness, itching, burning, painful sex, or frequent urinary tract infections (UTIs) start to impact quality of life or do not improve with basic self-care. GSM is very common—affecting up to 80% of women in menopause—and it is not something you have to just "put up with." In fact, untreated GSM can lead to ongoing discomfort, recurrent UTIs, and even more serious health issues.

Here at Alloy, we want you to know that effective treatments are available, and you do not need to suffer in silence. If you are experiencing any of the following, it’s time to seek treatment:

Persistent vaginal dryness, itching, or burning
Painful sex or decreased sexual satisfaction
Frequent or recurrent UTIs
Urinary symptoms like urgency, frequency, or discomfort

Vaginal estrogen therapy, such as our Estradiol Vaginal Cream, is considered the gold standard for GSM and can provide significant relief for most women within 4-12 weeks. You can learn more about this treatment and see if it’s right for you on our Estradiol Vaginal Cream page.

If you want a deeper dive into why GSM should not be ignored and why treatment is important, check out this helpful YouTube video chapter on the treatment gap for GSM, which explains how GSM is often underdiagnosed and undertreated.

If you’ve tried treatment for three months and are not seeing improvement, it’s important to follow up with a gynecologist who specializes in menopause care, as sometimes symptoms may be due to other conditions.

You deserve to feel comfortable and healthy—explore your options and get started with an assessment at Alloy to find the right solution for you.

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