The Hidden Menopause Struggle: What you Need to Know | Dr. Maria Uloko

Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM) is a condition that’s characterized by chronic symptoms of the vulva and bladder, affecting menopausal women of any age. It’s an important and widely misunderstood topic that more doctors — especially urologists — are beginning to address in women’s health today. 

In this episode, urologist and comprehensive sexual health specialist, Dr. Maria Uloko, offers a deep dive into GSM. She explains what GSM is, the importance of vulva health, advocating for yourself as a patient, understanding hormones during menopause, HRT safety, and much more.

Dr. Maria Uloko specializes in comprehensive sexual health care and medical advocacy for all genders. She serves as the Assistant Clinical Professor at the University of California, San Diego, and is the current Director of Vulvar Health. Her compassionate and inclusive approach to sexual health helps patients achieve a better quality of life. 

Discussed in this episode:

• The gender gap in the field of urology and how it’s changing today
• The need to end medical gaslighting 
• What is genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM)?
• Symptoms of GSM
• A brief history of hormone replacement therapy for menopause 
• Different reasons why women at many stages of life can experience menopause and GSM
• How clinicians can do better for their patients with menopause and GSM
• The importance of thorough medical examinations of the vulva 

“With menopause, there’s this cultural norm that women just suffer; women are automatically difficult. No. Women don’t have to suffer through menopause.”  - Dr. Maria Uloko

📌 Timestamps:

[00:00] Introduction

[01:15] Understanding GSM and Its Impact

[09:32] Unraveling Vulva Health Myths

[16:45] Practical Tips for a Healthy Vulva

[24:07] Q&A with Dr. Maria Uloko

[34:55] Closing Remarks and Takeaways

Related to this episode:

• Maria Uloko’s Podcast: Battle Cry Podcast 
• Dr. Maria Uloko on Instagram
• Dr. Maria Uloko on LinkedIn
• Dr. Maria Uloko on Twitter
• Find a NAMS Certified Menopause Practitioner

• Resources and episodes on Perimenopause & Menopause and sign up for the Perimenopause and Menopause newsletter

• Resources and episodes on Mental Health

• Resources and episodes on Sexual Health

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**The information shared by Fempower Health is not medical advice but for informational purposes to enable you to have more effective conversations with your doctor.  Always talk to your doctor before making health-related decisions. Additionally, the views expressed by the Fempower Health podcast guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent.**

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