Which of the following are symptoms of Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause?

• A. Vaginal dryness, irritation, increased risk of infections, decreased libido, dysuria
• B. Frequent headaches and blurred vision
• C. Joint swelling and stiffness
• D. Hyperglycemia and thirst

Answer: (A)

Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause occurs when estrogen deficiency after menopause causes thinning and drying of the vaginal and urinary tract tissues. This leads to vaginal dryness and irritation, and can also cause dysuria (painful or difficult urination), a higher risk of infections, and often a decrease in lubrication that can reduce libido. The combination of vaginal symptoms with urinary symptoms is characteristic of GSM, which is why this set of symptoms is the best fit.

The other options point to conditions unrelated to GSM: headaches and blurred vision aren’t typical GSM features, joint swelling and stiffness suggest arthritis or inflammatory joint disease, and hyperglycemia with thirst points to diabetes.