Perimenopause and Menopause: What Women Can Expect Regarding Urological Health

Are you approaching perimenopause or menopause? Many women experience urological issues during these life stages. That’s why Northwoods Urology wants to help you understand the changes happening in your body. We’re here to provide education and support.

What is Perimenopause?

Perimenopause is the transitional period before menopause. It typically starts in a woman’s 40s but can begin earlier or later. During this time, the ovaries gradually produce less estrogen. This hormonal shift can cause various symptoms, including irregular periods, hot flashes, and sleep disturbances.

What is Menopause?

Menopause officially occurs 12 months after a woman’s last menstrual period. The average age of menopause in the United States is 51. However, it can happen earlier or later. Menopause marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years.

Urological Changes During Perimenopause and Menopause

Lower estrogen levels during perimenopause and menopause can significantly impact your urological health. Common issues include:

• Urinary Incontinence: This involves the involuntary leakage of urine. Many women experience this when they cough, sneeze, or laugh. This is known as stress incontinence. Others may have a sudden, intense urge to urinate, followed by leakage. This is called urge incontinence.
• Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs): The decline in estrogen can make the urinary tract more susceptible to infections. Symptoms of a UTI include frequent urination, a burning sensation during urination, and cloudy or foul-smelling urine.
• Vaginal Dryness and Atrophy: Estrogen plays a vital role in maintaining vaginal tissue health. Reduced estrogen levels can lead to vaginal dryness, itching, and discomfort during intercourse. Additionally, the vaginal walls may become thinner and less elastic (vaginal atrophy).
• Overactive Bladder (OAB): OAB is characterized by a frequent and sudden urge to urinate. This can disrupt sleep and affect daily activities.
• Pelvic Organ Prolapse: This occurs when the pelvic floor muscles weaken and can no longer support the pelvic organs. Consequently, the bladder, uterus, or rectum may drop or press into the vagina.

What Can You Do?

Fortunately, there are many ways to manage these urological issues. Here are some tips:

• Lifestyle Changes: Maintain a healthy weight, avoid smoking, and limit caffeine and alcohol intake. Furthermore, practice pelvic floor exercises (Kegels) regularly to strengthen the muscles that support the bladder and urethra.
• Bladder Training: This involves timed voiding and gradually increasing the intervals between bathroom trips. This can help improve bladder control.
• Medications: Your doctor may prescribe medications to help manage overactive bladder, urinary incontinence, and vaginal dryness.
• Hormone Therapy: In some cases, hormone therapy may be recommended to alleviate menopausal symptoms and improve urological health.
• Pessaries: A pessary is a small device inserted into the vagina to support the pelvic organs in cases of pelvic organ prolapse.
• Surgery: In more severe cases, surgery may be an option to correct pelvic organ prolapse or urinary incontinence.

Don’t Hesitate to Seek Help

If you are experiencing any urological issues during perimenopause or menopause, don’t hesitate to contact Northwoods Urology. Our experienced team can help diagnose your condition and recommend the best course of treatment.

Remember, you are not alone. Many women face similar challenges during this time of life. With the right care and support, you can manage your symptoms and maintain your quality of life.

Schedule an appointment today! We are here to support you on your journey through perimenopause and menopause.