Our data showed that vitamin B12, folate and Hcy levels were not related with BMD in postmenopausal women. We think that one of the underlying mechanisms of increased Hcy levels and osteoporosis may be a mechanistic link which cannot detected by BMD or biochemical markers.
Maximum fluid intake rather than total voided volume seems to be an important determinant factor for total number of voids and functional bladder capacity.
Background
To date, there is no certain method for diagnosis of genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) and vaginal atrophy.
Aim
We aim to evaluate vaginal wall thickness (VWT) using 3D high frequency endovaginal ultrasound (3D EVUS) in GSM and also to investigate whether there is any association between VWT and postmenopausal sexual dysfunction.
Methods
Postmenopausal women applied for routine gynecologic examination were assessed at the Outpatient Clinic of Gynecology, Maltepe University Hospital. After pelvic examination, GSM symptoms were questioned for all women and vaginal health scoring tool was applied. Twenty women with GSM and 20 women without GSM were included in the study.
Outcomes
All patients filled in the Female Sexual Function Index (FSFI) and underwent 3D EVUS to evaluate VWT.
RESULTS
The women with GSM had significantly lower anterior and posterior VWT (P=.007 and P=.049, respectively). The total FSFI score, lubrication and pain sub-scores in patients with GSM was significantly lower than the patients without GSM. Anterior VWT was positively correlated with BMI and pain sub-score of FSFI (r=0.279, P=.047; r=0.344, P=.013, respectively). A significant negative correlation was detected between anterior vaginal VWT and age, time since menopause and satisfaction sub-score of FSFI (r=-0.332, P=.017; r=-0.354, P=.011; r=-0.301, P=.032, respectively). Posterior VWT was positively correlated with FSFI total score, arousal, lubrication and pain sub-scores (r=0.451, P=.001; r=0.437, P=.001; r=0.415, P=.002; r=0.335, P=.016; respectively).
Clinical Implications
Based on our results, measurement of VWT using 3D EVUS can be a useful non-invasive tool for the objective diagnosis of GSM.
Strengths and Limitations
Considering that only total vaginal thickness can be measured with traditional transabdominal and transvaginal techniques, the main strength of the study is the use of 3D EVUS for separate measurement of anterior and posterior VWT. The study has sufficient statistical power. The small sample size of study is the main limitation.
CONCLUSION
The 3D EVUS can be used for objective diagnosis of GSM and can also shed light on the causes of various sexual dysfunction symptoms in postmenopausal women, as it enables measuring the anterior and posterior walls of the vagina separately.
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