Prevalence of genitourinary syndrome of menopause in Japanese peri- and post-menopausal women: A cross-sectional online survey

Introduction Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) is a symptom complex that occurs secondary to vulvovaginal atrophy. It is generally accepted that GSM is more prevalent in postmenopausal women, and that it can affect their quality of life (QOL). However, there is little data regarding GSM in Japan. Objective The aim of this survey was (i) to determine the prevalence of vulvovaginal symptoms of GSM among Japanese peri- and post-menopausal women and (ii) to examine whether sexual activity affected the prevalence of GSM. Methods We conducted an online survey of 4,134 Japanese women aged 40 – 79 years in the general population. In this primary study, we focused on vulvovaginal symptoms of GSM. GSM was defined as a condition characterized by presenting at least one vaginal symptom such as vulva dryness, vulva hurting, dryness during sexual activity, and dyspareunia using the vulvovaginal symptoms questionnaire. The correlations between age, sexual activity, and GSM were analyzed. Results The prevalence of GSM was 11.6%. The respondents who reported GSM were more likely to be younger. The most common symptom was vulva dryness (6.0%). Only 22.0% of respondents were currently sexually active. Sexual activity was significantly correlated with GSM (P<0.01). The participants aged their 40s – 60s who had sexual activity showed an age-dependent increase in the prevalence of GSM such as vulva dryness and hurting. The respondents aged their 70s who were sexually active reported less dyspareunia than the other ages. Conclusions The vulvovaginal symptoms of GSM were not found with high frequency in Japanese peri- and post-menopausal women. This primary study was conducted in limited areas of GSM. We are planning to analyze the features of GSM including urinary symptoms and QOL more comprehensively with our whole database. Disclosure Work supported by industry: yes, by KOBAYASHI Pharmaceutical Company Limited. A consultant, employee (part time or full time) or shareholder is among the authors (KOBAYASHI Pharmaceutical Company Limited).