New Study Reveals Key Changes in Bladder and Urinary Tract Health During Menopause Transition

Menopause brings a host of changes for women, yet not all symptoms get equal attention. One area that often flies under the radar is bladder health. A recent study published in Menopause, the journal of The Menopause Society, explored how menopause status and hormone use affect bladder and urinary tract health.

While hot flashes and night sweats are commonly discussed, bladder issues are less frequently addressed. Despite the term genitourinary syndrome of menopause being introduced in 2014, the focus mostly centered around genital symptoms like vaginal dryness and painful intercourse. Little research has delved into urinary problems that can arise during menopause.

The new study involved over 3,000 women, categorized as premenopausal, perimenopausal, or postmenopausal. It highlighted that bladder health tends to decline with age, increasing the risk of incontinence and infections. Interestingly, hormone use had mixed effects: while systemic hormones were linked to worse urinary symptoms in postmenopausal women, localized low-dose hormone therapy seemed to improve conditions.

New insights from this study showed that premenopausal women were more likely to use hormones than their perimenopausal or postmenopausal counterparts. They also reported fewer bladder health issues due to hormone use. In contrast, perimenopausal and postmenopausal women had worse bladder function, with hormone therapy associated with poorer bladder health in postmenopausal individuals.

The findings underline a complex relationship between menopause status, hormone usage, and bladder health. Dr. Stephanie Faubion from The Menopause Society emphasizes the need for individualized approaches, stating, “This study highlights the changes in bladder health across the menopause transition.” Further research is crucial, and there’s a strong case for educational programs targeting women before they enter menopause. This could help them identify warning signs early, paving the way for better management options.

In recent years, awareness of menopause-related health issues has been growing, with social media amplifying discussions. Women are increasingly sharing their experiences and seeking advice, creating a supportive network for those navigating these changes. The conversation around menopause is evolving, and studies like this are vital in shedding light on often-overlooked aspects like bladder health.

For further reading, the study can be accessed [here](https://doi.org/10.1097/GME.0000000000002541).

Check out this related article: Join the Inaugural PEPP Mental Health Social: A Must-Attend Event for Family Childcare Providers!

Source link

Bladder, Menopause, Education, Healthcare, Hormone, Incontinence, Research, Syndrome