Northwestern Medicine Breast Cancer Vaginal Health Access

Complimentary Laser Treatments for Eligible Women Living with Breast Cancer to Restore Vaginal and Vulvar Health

Many women with a breast cancer diagnosis develop vaginal dryness and thinning of the tissue, a condition known as genitourinary syndrome of menopause. Symptoms of genitourinary syndrome of menopause can include any of the following vulvar, vaginal or urinary symptoms:

• Dryness
• Irritation
• Itching
• Urinary frequency
• Urinary urgency
• Recurrent urinary tract infections
• Painful intercourse

Despite the use of lubricants or long-acting vaginal moisturizers, many women are still unable to have intercourse. While local vaginal estrogen or DHEA in the form of a cream, suppository or vaginal ring can often alleviate symptoms, most women with breast cancer have either been advised to avoid hormones or prefer to do so.

CO2 laser treatments are a non-hormonal option to treat genitourinary syndrome of menopause. The Northwestern Medicine Center for Sexual Medicine and Menopause has successfully treated hundreds of women who are now pain-free and able to have pleasurable sexual activity. Unfortunately, CO2 laser treatments are not covered by insurance. Through the generosity of donors to the Northwestern Medicine Foundation, the Center for Sexual Medicine and Menopause is proud to offer complimentary vaginal and vulvar laser treatments for eligible post-menopausal women living with a breast cancer diagnosis.

Learn more about the BRAVA program.