Prevalence of Genitourinary Syndrome among Perimenopausal and Postmenopausal Women in a Tertiary Care Hospital: A Cross-sectional Analytical Study

Background: Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) is the revised vulvovaginal atrophy (VVA) terminology.This condition includes a range of genital issues, such as vaginal itching, burning, bleeding and irritation.It also comprises sexual dysfunction like dyspareunia (painful intercourse) and urinary problems (painful and frequent urination).Many women primarily encounter sexual dysfunction yet often feel too embarrassed to seek help, leading to it being one of the most undiagnosed conditions.This study intends to assess the GSM prevalence in perimenopausal and postmenopausal women attending gynecological Outpatient Departments (OPDs) by examining symptoms and vaginal pH levels.Additionally, the study seeks to identify risk factors that influence genitourinary symptoms in these women.Materials and methods: This analytical cross-sectional study was done in a tertiary hospital in Chengalpattu, Kanchipuram, Tamil Nadu, between October 2023 and February 2024.Using a convenient sampling method, 152 participants who had attended the gynecological outpatient department during the study period were recruited.Statistical tests like the multinomial logistic regression model were utilized to determine the relationship between the predictor variable (independent) and its predicted variables (dependent), taking into account possible confounding factors. Results:The overall prevalence of GSM among perimenopausal and postmenopausal women is 68.4% (95% CI: 60.6-75.4%).The mean Vaginal health index score (VHIS) for perimenopausal women is 20.28 (1.83), while for postmenopausal women it is 16.64 (2.89).Multinomial logistic regression analysis indicated that women aged 51-55 years, those who have experienced menopause, women with comorbidities and predisposing gynecological diseases, and those who are obese have a higher risk of developing VVA.This association is statistically significant (p < 0.01).However, other risk factors, such as education level, parity, and mode of delivery at birth, do not show a significant association with VVA. Conclusion:The incidence of GSM, which is a highly debilitating condition, is quite significant.Steps should be implemented to create menopausal clinics, identify this condition at an early stage, and thus enhance the quality of life.