Menopause can cause various bladder issues, including bladder pressure, due to declining estrogen levels. As women go through menopause, their body's production of the hormone estrogen starts to decline. This drop in estrogen leads to changes in the urinary tract that can result in bladder discomfort.
Some key points about menopause and bladder pressure:
- The urethra and bladder lining become thinner and less elastic without adequate estrogen. This thinning allows the passage of urine to irritate the bladder more easily.
- Decreased muscle tone in the pelvic floor and bladder due to low estrogen levels can allow the bladder to expand beyond its normal capacity, putting pressure on the bladder.
- Inflammation resulting from thinning tissues can contribute to bladder pressure and urinary urgency.
Some common bladder symptoms that women may experience during menopause due to these changes include:
- Increased bladder pressure and feeling like the bladder does not empty fully
- Frequent urination
- Urinary urgency - a sudden, difficult-to-control need to urinate
- Painful urination
- Incontinence - accidental leakage of urine
If women notice these persistent bladder issues during or after menopause, there are solutions available to help treat the symptoms. Potential treatment options include:
- Vaginal estrogen therapy - Local, low-dose estrogen applied directly to the vagina can help improve elasticity and moisture in urethral tissues without affecting the whole body like systemic hormone therapy. This can help reduce bladder discomfort.
- Lifestyle changes - Avoid bladder irritants like caffeine, alcohol and acidic foods. Timed urination and pelvic floor exercises can help regain bladder control.
- Medications - Prescriptions like vaginal DHEA or oral medications can help treat urinary issues if other measures are not effective.
Women should
see their doctor if they experience recurring bladder pressure or changes in urination habits after menopause. A urogynecologist who specializes in female pelvic medicine can properly diagnose the cause of symptoms and create an appropriate treatment plan. Getting evaluated quickly leads to the best management of troublesome bladder issues.
At Horizon Hormone Therapy, we specialize in treating hormonal issues related to perimenopause and menopause. Our caring physicians and nurse practitioners can provide customized hormone therapy to help alleviate uncomfortable symptoms. We also offer other therapies like vaginal estrogen and DHEA to specifically address bladder problems resulting from hormone changes in menopause. Contact us today to schedule a consultation!
