Clinician knowledge, attitudes, and barriers to management of vulvovaginal atrophy: variations in primary care and gynecology

Abstract

Primary care and gynecology clinicians differ in their knowledge and confidence in managing vulvovaginal atrophy but report similar practice barriers. Addressing identified knowledge deficits and practice barriers may lead to improved management of vulvovaginal atrophy.

Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause

“…44 When knowledge and barriers were compared between primary care clinicians and gynecology clinicians, the latter were more likely to screen, educate, and treat women for VVA. 44 Of particular concern are the women with Medicare insurance who may only choose to see a primary care provider, as assessment for VVA is not part of the routine care in the Medicare annual wellness visit. 44 Healthcare providers and women can discuss and use shared decision-making to select among treatment options, including both over-the-counter and prescription therapies.…”

“…44 Of particular concern are the women with Medicare insurance who may only choose to see a primary care provider, as assessment for VVA is not part of the routine care in the Medicare annual wellness visit. 44 Healthcare providers and women can discuss and use shared decision-making to select among treatment options, including both over-the-counter and prescription therapies. The choice is influenced by patient preference, insurance coverage, and cost.…”

“…Despite the many treatment options and their reported safety, GSM is significantly undertreated. The reported barriers to education and treatment of menopausal symptoms by health care providers include confusing messages from the media, inconclusive data about the efficacy of hormone therapy, time restraints, and the FDA Black Box warning on vaginal estrogen products 44 . When knowledge and barriers were compared between primary care clinicians and gynecology clinicians, the latter were more likely to screen, educate, and treat women for VVA 44 .…”

“…The reported barriers to education and treatment of menopausal symptoms by health care providers include confusing messages from the media, inconclusive data about the efficacy of hormone therapy, time restraints, and the FDA Black Box warning on vaginal estrogen products 44 . When knowledge and barriers were compared between primary care clinicians and gynecology clinicians, the latter were more likely to screen, educate, and treat women for VVA 44 . Of particular concern are the women with Medicare insurance who may only choose to see a primary care provider, as assessment for VVA is not part of the routine care in the Medicare annual wellness visit 44 …”

Vaginal Health in Menopausal Women

“…The aim of this paper is to provide an overview of the most recent literature on VVA that would help to sensitize the clinician toward the diagnosis and treatment of this condition [3,4]. This condition has important consequences in the daily life of post-menopausal women and in their relationships [5,6].…”