Vaginal pixel CO2 laser versus topical use of promestriene for genitourinary syndrome of menopause

Abstract Objective To compare the effectiveness of pixel CO2 laser and vaginal promestriene in treating genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM). Methods A quasi-randomized controlled trial was conducted with 48 patients. CO2 Laser Group (24 patients) received 3 sessions of vaginal pixel CO2 laser, and promestriene group (24 patients) used vaginal promestriene daily for 14 days, then twice weekly for 3 months and 3 weeks. Patients were evaluated before and after treatment using a visual analog scale (VAS), FSFI-6, ICIQ-SF, Vaginal Health Index (VHI), and vaginal wall biopsy. Results Of the 48 patients, 22 in CO2 Laser Group and 21 in promestriene group completed the study. Both groups showed significant symptom reduction by VAS, with improvements in desire, lubrication, and total FSFI-6 scores. CO2 Laser Group had greater improvements in lubrication, orgasm, and satisfaction (p<0.001). Urinary incontinence improved in both groups (p<0.01). VHI scores increased significantly in both groups (p<0.001). Biopsies revealed improvements in collagen, glycogen, vascularity, epithelial thickness, and reduced neutrophil count (p<0.01). Conclusion CO2 laser appears to be a viable non-hormonal alternative for treating GSM, particularly for women unable or unwilling to use hormonal therapies.