I understand that treatment with prasterone suppositories is effective in women with menopause, but they tell me that it is not financed by Social Security. Is that so? Thank you so much. Chus
Ideally, from the first symptoms of dryness it would be assessed in the gynecological consultation and the necessary treatment given, given that over time we go from dryness to atrophy, and this could become very severe as it progresses without being treated, affecting not only the vagina, but also the urethra. This would give rise to a mixture of vulvovaginal and urinary symptoms (dryness, pain with intercourse, burning, pain when urinating, repeated urinary infections…), which we would call genitourinary syndrome. The treatment of genitourinary syndrome could be more complex and may require attention from different specialties: gynecology, urology, pelvic floor physiotherapy…
Below I explain some 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 usually used as first-line treatment in atrophic vulvovaginitis. They come in different forms (creams, suppositories, rings) and offer quick and effective symptom relief. Many of these vaginal estrogens are funded.
- Prasterone: This hormonal precursor, applied locally to the vagina, is converted to estrogens and androgens within the cells in the vagina, improving vaginal lubrication, sensitivity and elasticity. Unfortunately, prasterone is not funded by Social Security, which means that patients must bear the cost of the treatment.
- Hormone replacement therapy: If a woman requires hormone replacement treatment for some medical reason, this treatment would also work for atrophic vulvovaginitis. There are many types of replacement therapies, and some are funded.
- Regenerative treatments: such as radiofrequency, laser, hyaluronic acid infiltrations, platelet-rich plasma… These treatments are not funded.
The lack of funding for some of these treatments can limit access to many women who could benefit from them. It is important that women can access the information necessary 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 the available options and make a decision that fits your personal needs and circumstances.
It would be essential to continue advocating for greater coverage of effective menopause treatments and empowering women to seek the care they deserve.
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