Overview

The Caress study is a single-center, open-label, randomized controlled trial (RCT) evaluating the efficacy of a combined treatment using topical hyaluronic acid and high-concentration oxygen therapy (Vaginal Natural Oxygenation Device - VNOD) in improving symptoms of Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM) in postmenopausal women, including those with a history of breast cancer. The primary objective is to assess vaginal dryness improvement one month after treatment, comparing two groups: an experimental group receiving VNOD therapy with hyaluronic acid and a control group using a hyaluronic acid-based gel (Hydeal-D®). Secondary endpoints include the evaluation of additional vaginal symptoms (pain, irritation, itching, sexual health, quality of life) up to six months post-treatment. The study will enroll 80 women (40 with a history of breast cancer and 40 without). Statistical analysis will use chi-square tests and logistic regression to compare symptom severity reduction between the two groups. With a duration of 18 months, the study aims to provide an innovative, non-hormonal treatment option to improve the quality of life for postmenopausal women, particularly those with a history of breast cancer

Eligibility

Inclusion Criteria:

• Informed consent signature
• Willingness to undergo treatment and follow-up evaluations according to the schedule outlined in the protocol
• Age > 18 years

Cohort 1:

• Diagnosis of non-metastatic breast cancer (M0/Mx according to TNM system) who have undergone surgical and/or chemotherapy and/or immunotherapy and/or radiotherapy and/or endocrine treatment.
• Postmenopausal women (FSH > 30 UIIU/L, E2 < 20 pg/ml), either naturally or surgically induced, or iatrogenic post-chemotherapy with absent menstrual cycle for at least 6 months; or premenopausal women on treatment with LHRH analog +/- tamoxifen and/or aromatase inhibitor for at least 6 months.
• At least a score of 2 (moderate) for vaginal dryness associated with vulvovaginal atrophy (score 2-3 on the MBS scale).
• Signs of pelvic static alterations not exceeding POP-Q score 2 (POP-Q).

Cohort 2:

• Postmenopausal women (FSH > 30 UI/L, E2 < 20 pg/ml), with absent menstrual cycle for at least 6 months, or women who have undergone bilateral adnexectomy at least 6 months ago.
• At least a score of 2 (moderate) for vaginal dryness associated with vulvovaginal atrophy (score 2-3 on the MBS scale).
• Signs of pelvic static alterations not exceeding POP-Q score 2 (POP-Q).

Exclusion Criteria:

• Other current therapy aimed at resolving symptoms associated with vulvo-vaginal atrophy, with the exception of the use of lubricants if sexual activity is present;
• HRT in progress or discontinued for less than 6 months;
• Ongoing vulvo-vaginal and urinary infections;
• Bleeding of ndd;
• Pathological pap-test within the previous 12 months.