Abstract

Background: Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) is a common condition in peri- and postmenopausal women caused by estrogen deficiency, significantly affecting their quality of life. However, the comprehensive assessment of the multidimensional impact of GSM in clinical practice remains limited. The Day-to-Day Impact of Vaginal Aging (DIVA) scale is a standardized tool that enables objective evaluation of the impact of this syndrome. Objectives: To evaluate the impact of genitourinary syndrome of menopause in perimenopausal women using the DIVA scale and to investigate several associated factors. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted on 136 women aged 40 years and older who attended the Obstetrics and Gynecology Clinic at Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy 278 TẠP CHÍ Y DƯỢC HUẾ - HUE JOURNAL OF MEDICINE AND PHARMACY ISSN 3030-4318; eISSN: 3030-4326 Hospital from October 2023 to August 2024. Participants were assessed using the DIVA scale, and relevant factors were collected. Data were analyzed using statistical tests and linear regression models. Results: The mean total DIVA score was significantly higher in women who were not sexually active compared with those who were sexually active (2.18 ± 1.10 and 0.44 ± 0.31, respectively; p < 0.001). Across all four domains, including daily activities, emotional well-being, sexual function, and self-perception, scores were consistently and significantly higher in the non-sexually active group (p < 0.001). Age showed the strongest association with DIVA scores (r = 0.839; p < 0.001). Furthermore, greater severity of urinary symptoms (Overactive Bladder Symptom Score - OABSS) and poorer sleep quality (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index - PSQI) were positively correlated with DIVA scores (p < 0.001 and p = 0.045, respectively). Conclusion: Genitourinary syndrome of menopause has a substantial impact on perimenopausal women, particularly among those who are not sexually active. Age, urinary symptoms, and sleep disturbances are associated with the severity of this impact. Routine screening and assessment using the DIVA scale are necessary for early detection and for improving the quality of life of menopausal women.