Vaginal Estradiol Versus Moisturizer to Improve Postmenopausal Vaginal Aging Symptoms, Dysbiosis and Markers of Latency Reversal in Menopausal Women Living With HIV

Summary

This is a research study about the effects of vaginal estradiol compared to moisturizer on vaginal symptoms of menopause and the microbiome in women with HIV. This research study aims to understand how vaginal products affect the aging of the female genital tract in women living with HIV who are menopausal or perimenopausal and have vaginal or urinary symptoms. There is a comparison group of women who are living without HIV. Participants with HIV and vaginal or urinary menopausal symptoms (e.g., dryness, irritation, soreness, itching, pain with sex, dysuria, urgency, or frequent urinary tract infections) will be asked to apply vaginal estradiol or a vaginal moisturizer (Replens). Participants who have vaginal or urinary menopausal symptoms and do not have HIV will receive vaginal estradiol.

Eligibility

Age range

40–70 years

Sex

Female

Healthy volunteers

Yes

Interventions

• Drug
  Vaginal estradiol tablets

  Using a pre-loaded single-use plastic applicator, participants will insert one 10 microgram estradiol tablet intravaginally daily for 2 weeks and then one tablet twice weekly for the remainder of the study for a total of 16 weeks.

• Other
  Vaginal moisturizer

  Using a pre-loaded single-use plastic applicator, participants will insert one vaginal moisturizer applicator intravaginally twice weekly for the duration of the study for a total of 12 weeks.

Location