Understanding Pelvic Health Changes During Perimenopause & Menopause

In the media there is currently a great increase in conversations around Perimenopause and Menopause, often focussing on the poor sleep, hot flushes, brain fog and aches and pains that are common hallmarks of this time in a woman’s life.

Menopause typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, however perimenopause can commence up to 10 years earlier, so it isn’t uncommon to have symptoms beginning in mid to late 30’s or early 40’s.

This natural biological process involves a decline in oestrogen and progesterone production, leading to the cessation of menstrual cycles. The decrease in oestrogen level in particular is responsible for the majority of the symptoms experienced.

While many are familiar with common symptoms such as hot flushes and mood changes, changes in pelvic health are often less discussed, but equally important and impactful on the quality of a woman’s life. Understanding these changes can help women manage their symptoms and maintain their quality of life during and after menopause.

Hormonal Changes and Their Impact on Pelvic Health

During menopause, the decline in oestrogen levels effects the whole body, including the pelvic region. There is a syndrome called Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause -or GSM. Here are some key symptoms of GSM:

• Vaginal dryness.
• Vaginal burning.
• Vaginal discharge.
• Genital itching.
• Burning with urination.
• Urgency with urination.
• Frequent urination.
• Recurrent urinary tract infections.
• Urinary incontinence (leaking)

Managing Pelvic Health During Menopause

Awareness and proactive management of pelvic health can significantly enhance a woman’s well-being during menopause. Here are some strategies:

1. Pelvic Floor Exercises: Regularly performing pelvic floor exercises (also known as Kegel exercises) can improve pelvic floor muscle function, providing better support for the bladder and other pelvic organs, improving continence, and allowing many women to participate in activities they may have otherwise restricted due to pelvic health concerns. It is very important that you have the correct technique to ensure you get benefit from these exercises – they only work well if done well!
2. Systemic Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): HRT may help alleviate many menopausal symptoms. It is worth having a conversation with your General Practitioner who is the best person to know if this is a good option for you.
3. Vaginal Estrogen: For women primarily experiencing GSM symptoms, localized treatments such as vaginal oestrogen creams, rings, or tablets may effectively address vaginal, bladder and bowel symptoms and again, this is best discussed with your General Practitioner who will know if this is a good option for you.
4. Healthy Lifestyle: Maintaining a healthy weight, staying hydrated, and engaging in regular physical activity can also support pelvic health. Exercise is one of the most powerful treatments of all the symptoms of perimenopause and menopause.
5. Professional Support: Consulting a healthcare provider specialising in menopausal care can provide personalised treatment plans and interventions to manage pelvic health effectively. At Physiosports we have Pelvic Health physiotherapists with post graduate qualifications in Pelvic health who offer: specialised assessment; bladder, bowel and prolapse management advic; exercises to optimise your pelvic floor muscles; and also offer general exercise advice for optimising your health during perimenopause and menopause.

Conclusion

Perimenopause and Menopause brings about significant changes in a woman’s body, with pelvic health being a critical yet often overlooked aspect. By understanding these changes and adopting appropriate management strategies, women can navigate this transition with greater comfort and confidence. Proactive care, including a consultation with a Pelvic Health Physiotherapist for checking you are doing pelvic floor exercises correctly, and a healthy lifestyle, can help maintain pelvic health and improve overall quality of life during menopause. We look forward to helping you!

Need more help understanding your Pelvic Health?  Book in to see Gen McGlashan, our Specialist Women’s, Men’s and Pelvic Health Physiotherapist by clicking here or calling reception on 9596 9110.