Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (2 CEs)

Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) is a composite of genital, urologic and sexual sequalae stemming from a hypoestrogenic state during the menopause transition. More than 50% of women experience symptoms of GSM post-menopause, negatively impacting quality of life issues regarding continence, sexual function and general well-being. Physical therapists trained in menopause-related conditions such as GSM fill a void in current healthcare education and are valuable resources for women seeking guidance and treatment to effectively manage their symptoms.  This presentation will provide an overview of GSM, intake tools, evidence-based treatments and case scenarios.

ABOUT THE SPEAKERS

Karen Snowden, PT, DPT, WCS

Dr. Karen Snowden is a Doctor of Physical Therapy, board certified in women’s health (WCS) and holds specialty certifications through the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) in pelvic floor dysfunction (CAPP-Pelvic) and pregnancy / postpartum (CAPP-OB). She has 30⁺ years clinical experience and specializes in pelvic health for all genders, obstetrics, and menopause. She is known for her comprehensive, holistic approach in helping diverse patients achieve their personal goals, and she is passionate about clinical education.

Karen resides in Allentown, PA. She received her physical therapy degree from Northeastern University and Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Widener University. In addition to treating patients, she teaches in the DeSales University Doctor of Physical Therapy Program and mentors physical therapy research. She is an international speaker educating physical therapists in pelvic, obstetric, and menopause-related conditions and disease prevention. She co-developed and teaches an evidence-based menopause course to healthcare providers through: www.snowdenlitos.com. She is active in the APTA Academy of Pelvic Health Physical Therapy serving on various education committees.

Karen Litos, PT, DPT, WCS

Dr. Karen Litos is a Doctor of Physical Therapy,  Board-Certified in Women’s Health (WCS) through the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialties, and holds advanced APTA credentials in pelvic floor (CAPP-Pelvic)  and obstetrics (CAPP-OB)  physical therapy. Karen has 21 years clinical experience and owns No Mom Left Behind Physical Therapy, a private practice in Okemos Michigan with a clinical focus on female pelvic health,  prenatal, peripartum and postnatal recovery through the midlife menopause transition. She received her Masters in Physical Therapy  from The University of Michigan-Flint and a Doctorate of Physical Therapy from The College of St. Scholastica in Duluth, Minnesota.  Karen serves as adjunct faculty in The University of Michigan-Flint transitional DPT program. She is the incoming chair for the APTA Academy of Pelvic Health Obstetric Committee assisting nationally with continuing education of physical therapists in obstetrics and pelvic health as a lead instructor, lab assistant, and course content contributor. As the co-owner of a continuing education company for healthcare providers, Karen co-developed and instructs an evidence-based menopause course through www.SnowdenLitos.com.  She also teaches childbirth education classes online, and provides a business training program for women’s health PTs who want to expand their practice to include prenatal and postpartum wellness classes.