When women enter menopause, many changes occur due to the loss of estrogen and progesterone, especially in the vaginal area. Clitoral atrophy is a condition characterized by the gradual thinning and shrinking of the clitoris as the body loses estrogen during the transition. It’s associated with genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM), an umbrella term for the menopause-related changes in the genital and urinary systems.
The symptoms of clitoral atrophy are usually progressive and, if not treated, can get worse as a woman moves through the menopausal transition, which can significantly impact quality of life. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can provide patients with help to manage the condition.