Genitourinary syndrome of menopause in five Asian countries: results from the Pan-Asian REVIVE survey

Abstract

Objectives: The Pan-Asian REVIVE survey aimed to examine women’s experiences with genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) and their interactions with health-care professionals (HCPs).

Methods: Self-completed surveys were administered face-to-face to 5992 women (aged 45–75 years) in Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan, and Thailand.

Results: Of 638 postmenopausal women with GSM symptoms, only 35% were aware of the GSM condition, most of whom first heard of GSM through their physician (32%). The most common symptoms were vaginal dryness (57%) and irritation (43%). GSM had the greatest impact on sexual enjoyment (65%) and intimacy (61%). Only 25% had discussed their GSM symptoms with a HCP, and such discussions were mostly patient-initiated (64%) rather than HCP-initiated (24%). Only 21% had been clinically diagnosed with GSM and only 24% had ever used treatment for their symptoms. Three-quarters of those who had used treatment for GSM had discussed their symptoms with a HCP compared to only 9% of those who were treatment-naïve.

Conclusion: GSM is underdiagnosed and undertreated in Asia. As discussion of GSM with HCPs appears to be a factor influencing women’s awareness and treatment status, a more active role by HCPs to facilitate early discussions on GSM and its treatment options is needed.

Keywords:

• Genitourinary syndrome of menopause
• postmenopausal
• REVIVE Survey
• Asia
• awareness

Acknowledgements

Medical writing and editorial support was funded by Shionogi and provided by Bao Hui Lee from Research2Trials Clinical Solutions Pte Ltd.

Conflict of interest

C. Altomare is an employee of Shionogi Inc. All other authors have no relevant relationships to disclose.

Source of funding

This study was funded by Taiwan Shionogi & Co., Ltd. and Shionogi Singapore Pte. Ltd.