Topical Spermidine Hyaluronate (Spd-HA) in Vulvovaginal Atrophy: A Preliminary Study

Area of Science:

• Gynecology
• Menopause Research
• Vaginal Health

Background:

• Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM), formerly vulvovaginal atrophy (VVA), presents with genital, sexual, and urinary symptoms due to hypoestrogenism.
• Hormonal therapies are effective but not suitable for all patients.
• Spermidine hyaluronate (Spd-HA) has demonstrated efficacy in vulvodynia and is being investigated for stress urinary incontinence.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of Spd-HA gel in managing the signs and symptoms of GSM.
• To explore a potential non-hormonal treatment for GSM.

Main Methods:

• A prospective, single-arm pilot study involving five postmenopausal women with GSM.
• Participants applied Spd-HA gel locally for eight weeks.
• Assessment of vulvovaginal signs and symptoms using Most Bothersome Symptoms (MBS), Vaginal Health Index (VHI), and Maturation Index (MI) at baseline, 4 weeks, and 8 weeks.

Main Results:

• Spd-HA gel significantly improved MBS scores from baseline to week 8.
• VHI scores and MI showed improvement over the eight-week study period.
• Observed improvements in Maturation Values (MVs) were superior to hydrating products but less than estrogen or prasterone therapies.

Conclusions:

• Spd-HA gel appears to effectively ameliorate the vulvovaginal symptoms associated with GSM.
• This agent represents a potential non-hormonal therapeutic option for women with GSM.
• Larger, controlled trials are needed to confirm these preliminary findings.