Effect of zinc-containing pessaries on menopausal genitourinary syndrome, a double-blind randomised trial.

BACKGROUND: Menopause-related changes in the vulva, vagina, and lower urinary tract are called the genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM). Symptoms include urgency, dysuria, recurrent urinary tract infection, dryness, burning, irritation in the genitals, and sexual symptoms. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of zinc-containing vaginal pessaries in relieving GSM symptoms and to document any adverse reactions that may occur. METHODS: A pilot prospective randomised study was conducted on fifty postmenopausal women. Group 1 of 25 cases received zinc-containing pessaries, and Group 2 of 25 cases received placebo pessaries. Both groups received the treatment regimen in the form of one pessary per vagina before bedtime for 14 consecutive nights. GSM symptoms on a visual analog scale (VAS) and Vaginal Health Index (VHI) were reported before and after treatment. RESULT: Regarding VHI values after treatment, patients treated with zinc pessaries showed significant improvement regarding elasticity, fluid secretion, vaginal pH, epithelial mucosa, moisture, and the total score compared to those treated with placebo pessaries. Regarding the VAS score, also patients treated with zinc pessaries had statistically significant improvement regarding vaginal pain, burning sensation, itching, vaginal dryness, dyspareunia, dysuria, and the total score compared to those treated with placebo pessaries. CONCLUSION: patients of GSM treated with zinc pessaries had higher satisfaction with significant improvement in the VHI and VAS scores.