Overview
The goal of this observational study is to evaluate the efficacy, safety, and impact on quality of life and sexuality of non-ablative dual-wavelength diode laser treatments in managing Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM) in sexually active post-menopausal women who cannot use or have not benefited from local estrogen-based therapies. The main questions it aims to answer are:
Does non-ablative dual-wavelength diode laser therapy improve vaginal dryness, burning sensation, and dyspareunia in post-menopausal women? What is the impact of this therapy on the vaginal health index and sexual function? Researchers will compare the laser-treated group to their baseline measurements to see if non-ablative dual-wavelength diode laser therapy effectively treats GSM.
Participants will:
Undergo three monthly sessions of dual-wavelength diode laser therapy. Participate in follow-up evaluations at three and six months post-treatment. Complete self-assessments of GSM symptoms and questionnaires evaluating sexual function and quality of life at each follow-up.
This study aims to provide preliminary evidence that non-ablative dual-wavelength diode laser therapy is a safe and effective non-hormonal treatment for GSM, addressing a gap in existing treatments for women who cannot use or have not benefited from hormonal therapies.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria:
- Post-menopausal women aged 45-73 years.
- Sexually active.
- Experiencing physiological amenorrhea for more than 12 months.
- Exhibiting at least one symptom of Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM).
- Not using lubricants or hormonal therapy in the previous 6 months.
- Able to provide written informed consent.
Exclusion Criteria:
- Untreated uterine or vulvovaginal cancers.
- Pacemaker or other implanted electrode carriers.
- Severe multi-organ or neurological diseases.
- Active sexually transmitted infections.
- Moderate to severe uterine prolapse.
- Active urinary tract infections.
- Acute or chronic dermatological conditions in the vulvar or vaginal area.
- Active genital herpes.
- Active high-risk Human Papillomavirus (HPV).
- Ischemic tissues, unhealed wounds, sores, or undiagnosed mucosal or epithelial alterations.
- Recent unhealed invasive or ablative surgeries.
- Bleeding disorders or anticoagulant therapy.
- Immunodeficiencies.
- Uncontrolled diabetes.