Breast Awareness, Vaginal Dryness & GSM: Menopause Screening and Treatment Explained

In Episode 11 of On the Mones, pharmacist Kate Thomas sits down with Dr Sarah Farrell, GP and principal of Sydney Women's Wellness, to tackle two major midlife health topics that do not get nearly enough honest airtime: breast awareness and genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM).On breast awareness, Kate and Dr Farrell cover:What breast awareness actually means today and how it differs from formal breast cancer screeningHow to know when to see your GP about a breast change or lumpBreast density, mammograms and why midlife breast changes can feel alarmingThe difference between normal hormonal breast changes and symptoms that need reviewOn genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM), they cover:Vaginal dryness in menopause and why it is so common and so under-treatedPain with sex and the impact on relationships and quality of lifeRecurrent UTIs after menopause and the link to estrogen declineBladder symptoms and what is driving them hormonallyThe full GSM treatment ladder is covered clearly and practically:Vaginal moisturisers versus lubricants and when to use eachVaginal estrogen and how it worksPrasterone as a treatment optionWhen hormonal treatment is appropriateWhere non-hormonal options like hyaluronic acid vaginal preparations may fitThis evidence-based conversation helps women understand the difference between normal hormonal changes and symptoms that need medical review, without panic or misinformation.Whether you are in perimenopause, approaching menopause, or simply trying to understand your hormones, I've got you.Read more about this episode at Medication Clarity Clinic, Kate's own medication education and telehealth consulting site: https://medicationclarity.com.au