Embracing Vaginal Estrogen: A Heartfelt Exploration into Female Sexual Health

Disclaimer: This blog post originally appeared on Kelly Casperson's website and is shared here with her full permission. If you enjoyed this post, we encourage you to explore more of her work by visiting her website.

Today, I’m excited to open up about a transformative chapter in my career, one that revolves around the often-overlooked realm of female sexual health.

The Seven-Year Itch

Around the seven-year mark in my urology practice, the routine of recurrent UTIs and a bit of soul-searching hit me. It was during this time that a patient’s struggle with a painful, sexless marriage became a turning point in my career.

This encounter propelled me into the world of female sexual medicine, revealing a treasure trove of knowledge hidden behind societal taboos and insufficient education. Eager to break the silence, I took a leap into podcasting, becoming one of the pioneering urologist podcasters with the “You Are Not Broken” podcast, now nearing its fourth year.

Estrogen and Female Sexual Health

In this blog post, my goal is to shine a light on the vital role of vaginal estrogen in urology practice, dispelling myths and advocating for a more holistic approach to female sexual health.

Understanding Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM)

Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause covers a spectrum of symptoms affecting women’s urinary, sexual, and overall well-being. Despite its prevalence, many women might not identify it as their primary concern when seeking medical assistance.

The Impact of Vaginal Estrogen

Vaginal estrogen, often overlooked, emerges as a powerful tool in addressing GSM. Studies indicate that it significantly reduces the risk of recurrent UTIs and overactive bladder – common concerns among women seeking urological care.

While vaginal estrogen proves to be a game-changer, obstacles like accessibility issues, cost, and misconceptions hinder its widespread adoption. I advocate for a more personalized and informed approach, emphasizing the importance of open communication between healthcare providers and patients.

Safety and Misconceptions

Contrary to popular belief, vaginal estrogen is remarkably safe, even for individuals with a history of breast cancer or cardiovascular disease. I challenge misconceptions surrounding estrogen use, underscoring the need for ongoing treatment.