What is menopause?
Menopause occurs when a woman’s ovaries decrease production of progesterone and estrogen hormones, and the menstrual periods stop. True menopause is after a woman has not had a period for 12 months. Many women experience irregular cycles and symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes, for years before this point. This is considered perimenopause. As estrogen levels decrease, many symptoms can arise, including pelvic health symptoms. Read on to learn more about the changes to the pelvic floor and symptoms you may experience.
The impact of decreased estrogen on the pelvic health:
- Vaginal dryness
- Decreased elasticity of the pelvic floor muscles
- Thinning of the vaginal wall
- Connective tissues becomes less supportive
Symptoms due to decreased estrogen/above impacts:
- Painful intercourse
- Pelvic Organ Prolapse
- New or increase in urinary leakage
- New or increase in bowel and gas leakage
- Urinary frequency and urgency
- Constipation
So, what can you do to support your pelvic health during menopause?
- Prepare yourself for these changes and realize that they can be common during this phase of life.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle. Eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and supporting your mental and emotional health will help your body as you go through these changes.
- See a pelvic health PT. While these changes and symptoms are common, it doesn’t mean you have to “just live with it” for the rest of your life.
What will a pelvic health PT look like?
As with anyone, pelvic health PT will start with an initial evaluation. In an initial evaluation, we will assess your pelvic floor and surrounding musculature and supportive structures. After the evaluation, we will work with you to create a specific program that will help you to achieve your goals. This program will involve follow ups visits and a home program. It might include pelvic floor exercises for strengthening or relaxation, education to minimize painful intercourse, pressure management strategies to minimize prolapse symptoms, constipation education, and so much more. If you are entering this phase of life, don’t be afraid to reach out. We would love to help!