I understand that treatment with prasterone suppositories is effective in postmenopausal women, but I am told that it is not financed by Social Security. Is this so? Thank you so much. Chus
Ideally, at the first symptoms of dryness, it would be evaluated during the gynecological consultation and the necessary treatment would be administered, given that over time we move from dryness to atrophy, and this could become very serious at as it progresses without treatment, affecting not only the vagina, but also the urethra. This would give rise to a mixture of vulvovaginal and urinary symptoms (dryness, pain during sexual intercourse, burning, pain when urinating, repeated urinary infections, etc.), which we would call genitourinary syndrome. The treatment of genitourinary syndrome could be more complex and require the attention of different specialties: gynecology, urology, pelvic floor physiotherapy, etc.
Below I explain a few different therapies for atrophic vulvovaginitis of menopause:
- Vaginal moisturizers: provide short-term symptomatic relief, are useful for prevention or as a complement to treatments. They are not funded.
- Vaginal estrogens: They are generally used as first intention in atrophic vulvovaginitis. They come in different forms (creams, suppositories, rings) and provide quick and effective symptom relief. Many of these vaginal estrogens are funded.
- Prasterone: This hormonal precursor, applied locally in the vagina, is converted into estrogens and androgens within the cells of the vagina, thus improving vaginal lubrication, sensitivity and elasticity. Unfortunately, prasterone is not funded by Social Security, which means that patients must bear the cost of treatment.
- Hormone replacement therapy: If a woman needs hormone replacement therapy for a medical reason, this treatment will also work for atrophic vulvovaginitis. There are many types of replacement therapies, and some are funded.
- Regenerative care: such as radiofrequency, laser, hyaluronic acid infiltrations, platelet-rich plasma… These treatments are not funded.
Lack of funding for some of these treatments can limit access for many women who could benefit from them. It is important that women can access the information they need to make informed decisions about their health.
If you are considering this treatment, I encourage you to consult with your trusted gynecologist to discuss all available options and make a decision that fits your personal needs and situation.
It would be essential to continue to advocate for greater coverage of effective menopause treatments and to empower women to seek the care they deserve.
