Menopause and its impact on bladder and urinary tract health

Menopause and urinary health

A new study has examined the effect of menopause on women’s bladder and urinary tract health. While much attention has been given to some of the more obvious effects of the menopause – hot flushes, night sweats, mood swings – very little research has previously been carried out into its impact on urinary health.

However, this new research – published in Menopause, the Menopause Society journal – has explored exactly that. More than 3,000 women, classed as premenopausal, perimenopausal or postmenopausal, took part in the study.

Menopause and urinary health

While this might be the first official study into the matter, perimenopausal and menopausal women around the world will be aware of the impact the menopause can have on your bladder health – or will be relieved to know that they are not alone!

Common urinary tract symptoms associated with menopause or perimenopause include:

  • Urgency urinary incontinence – when urine leakage occurs after a sudden urgent need to urinate
  • Stress incontinence – when urine leakage occurs if your bladder is put under extra pressure – often when you sneeze or laugh
  • Mixed incontinence – some women experience both of the above conditions

New findings from the study

One new finding from the study was that perimenopausal and postmenopausal women generally experienced worse bladder health and function than premenopausal women, whilst premenopausal women reported using hormones more often than either perimenopausal or postmenopausal women. Worse bladder health was linked to hormone therapy in postmenopausal women.

Previous findings confirmed

As well as bringing to light the new information above, the study also confirmed the findings of some previous studies, such as:

  • Bladder health and risk of incontinence usually worsens with age
  • Hormone use can have mixed results. Postmenopausal women report an increase in urinary symptoms with systemic hormone use, while localised, low dose hormone treatment tended to improve symptoms.

Researchers concluded that the relationship between menopause and bladder and urinary tract health is complex and requires further research.

What can you do if you are experiencing urinary symptoms associated with menopause?

Urinary incontinence and associated issues can be uncomfortable and embarrassing, but there are some things you can do to help:

  • Pelvic floor exercises – these can really help to improve your bladder’s capacity to hold urine
  • Reduce caffeine consumption – caffeinated drinks can irritate your bladder and increase the frequency of your need to urinate
  • Limit or avoid alcohol – again, alcohol can irritate the bladder
  • Wear loose-fitting clothing and avoid sanitary pads or continence pads as these can irritate delicate skin and make the problem worse

Should I take HRT for urinary symptoms associated with menopause?

The jury is out on whether hormone treatment improves or could in fact worsen urinary tract symptoms associated with menopause. If you think you are suffering urinary incontinence or similar issues that could be linked to menopause, the best first step is to book an appointment with a specialist who can help you to identify the cause of your symptoms and establish an appropriate treatment plan.

/by

Major UK study reveals impact of diet on endometriosis

impact of diet on endometriosis

Endometriosis is a painful condition, affecting up to one in ten women in the UK. Very little is known about its cause and there is no definite cure, and anything that can help to alleviate the symptoms is welcome news to sufferers. So, the fact that a new study into the impact of diet on endometriosis has shown that dietary changes could have a positive impact on endometriosis pain is potentially something to be celebrated.

What is endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a condition where womb-like tissue begins to grow outside of the womb – typically on organs in the abdominal region. This tissue is subject to the same cyclical changes as the womb tissue itself, but because it doesn’t have the same ability to exit the body once a month, it builds up, potentially causing scarring and pain.

Because the cause is unknown, and because the symptoms of endometriosis are so similar to many other female health problems – irritable bowel syndrome, chronic pelvic pain, painful periods, to name but a few – the condition is famously underdiagnosed, with some women waiting up to ten years for a diagnosis. There is also no known cure, and treatment mostly involves managing the pain, so anything that can help reduce that pain is worth exploring.

How can diet affect endometriosis pain?

The study has shown that dietary changes can have a positive effect on the level of pain experienced by endometriosis sufferers, but it hasn’t proven why that is – although medical experts have offered some theories.

Dietary changes that were shown to help were:

  • Eliminating gluten – 45% of endometriosis patients participating in the study reported an improvement in pain after cutting out gluten from their diet.
  • Eliminating dairy – a dairy-free diet also seemed to reduce pain in 45% of participants. Experts have posited that both these improvements could be to do with a change in gut bacteria.
  • Reducing caffeine – cutting back on caffeine resulted in improved pain levels for 43% of those studied, which doctors say could be related to better sleep – pain often feels worse when we are tired.
  • Reducing alcohol – a whopping 53% of study participants said they experienced less pain after cutting down their alcohol consumption, which experts suggest could be because alcohol has a similar effect on your cells to oestrogen, which is the main culprit in causing endometriosis symptoms.

Should endometriosis sufferers make all these dietary changes straightaway?

Whilst the results of this study are very promising, and there is certainly no harm in reducing your caffeine and alcohol intake, it is always important to seek medical advice before making any major changes to your diet. Making all these dietary changes at once could also mean that you don’t know which one, if any, has made the difference.

Larger and more in-depth studies are needed to show just how effective these dietary changes can be in managing the symptoms of endometriosis, but this is certainly a great first step in allowing patients to have more control over their own condition.

/by

The 7 signs of endometriosis you should be aware of

signs of endometriosis

Endometriosis, whilst common – affecting around one in ten women – is famously difficult to diagnose, partly because its symptoms are so similar to those of other conditions associated with women’s health. However, there are some signs of endometriosis that should not be ignored.

What is endometriosis?

Endometriosis is a condition where uterine (womb) tissue grows outside of the womb, typically on the organs in the abdominal region. This tissue, which would usually be expelled from the body during menstruation, then has nowhere to go, which can lead to inflammation and the formation of scar tissue.

What are the main signs of endometriosis to look out for?

Because endometriosis symptoms can be like those of other women’s health issues, like period pain and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), people often ignore them. However, if you are suffering from any of the following, it might be time to seek specialist help:

1 Severe period pain

We are told that it is ‘normal’ to experience pain during menstruation, and to a certain extent that is true, but if your period pains are so intense that they are affecting your daily life – necessitating time off work, for example – then that is not normal, and you should seek medical attention.

2 Digestive problems

There is a high crossover between endometriosis and IBS – in fact, some experts believe there may be a link between the two – so if you are regularly experiencing symptoms like diarrhoea, constipation or nausea, don’t just write it off as IBS, particularly if you are also experiencing some of the other symptoms listed here.

3 Bladder problems

People with endometriosis often experience pain during urination. This may be worse around the time of your period but can happen at any point in your cycle.

4 Pelvic pain

If you are suffering from pain in the pelvic region throughout the month, not just in the days surrounding your period, this could also be a sign of endometriosis – if scar tissue has formed within the pelvic floor region, this can cause inflammation and pain.

5 Spotting between periods

If you sometimes find small amounts of blood in your underwear in between your periods, this is known as ‘breakthrough bleeding’ and can be a symptom of endometriosis.

6 Pain during sexual intercourse

Because the most common area for endometriosis-related scar tissue to form is in the pelvic region, this can affect sexual intercourse. If you are regularly experiencing pain during sex, it might be sensible to speak to a doctor.

7 Unexplained infertility

If you have been trying to conceive with no success, endometriosis could be a factor. Although experts don’t yet know if there is a direct causal link between endometriosis and infertility, around four in ten women with infertility also have endometriosis.

If one or more of the symptoms listed above sounds familiar, then it is important to speak to a gynaecologist about your concerns. Here at SureScan, we offer the one and only consultant-led women’s health service in the UK. For more information or to book a consultation, please contact us.

/by

How does stress affect your gynaecological health?

stress affect your gynaecological health

April is Stress Awareness Month, and by now we are all aware of the negative impact stress can have on our physical health – from insomnia to stomach upsets, stress can have a major causal effect. But did you know that stress can also affect your gynaecological health?

How can stress affect your gynaecological health?

When we experience stress, our body releases hormones like adrenaline and cortisol into the bloodstream, producing what is known as the “fight or flight” response. Whilst this can be useful in short bursts – to help you meet a deadline, for example, or to run for a bus – if the stress response is ongoing, that can start to cause some problems.

Stress and menstruation

It will come as no surprise to hear that menstruation and hormones go hand in hand. However, the stress hormones are not the same ones that are released to aid menstruation, and fluctuations in these stress hormones can actually have an impact on the duration, intensity and frequency of menstruation – in fact some women with chronic stress find their periods stop all together.

Stress and pelvic pain

When we are stressed, our muscles tend to become tense, and this also applies to the muscles of the pelvic floor. If your pelvic floor muscles are tense for a prolonged period, due to chronic stress, this can lead to pelvic pain, and even a condition called vaginismus – an involuntary tightening of the vaginal muscles, often associated with painful sexual intercourse.

Stress and gynaecological infections

When you suffer from long-term stress, that can stop the immune system doing its job effectively, which leaves you open to infection. This means that – although stress doesn’t directly cause the problem – women who are highly stressed are more likely to suffer from yeast infections like thrush, or urinary tract infections (UTIs).

Stress and fertility

When stress lasts for a long time, it can affect your ovulation, or the quality of the eggs you release. This in turn can make it more difficult for you to conceive naturally. Unfortunately, this struggle to conceive can often lead to more stress, which only exacerbates the problem.

Tips to manage your stress levels

While all this talk about the dangers of stress might be, well, stressful, it is important to remember that stress is a normal part of life, and so long as you have the tools to manage it, it shouldn’t pose too much of a problem.

Some things you can do to help keep your stress levels under control:

  • Eat a healthy, balanced diet, rich in fruit and vegetables, and avoid stimulants like caffeine and alcohol
  • Exercise regularly – not only will this help to keep you fit and healthy, but exercise is great for raising your endorphin levels, lifting your mood
  • Try to ensure you get enough sleep – regular exercise and a balanced diet will help with this, but other things you can try including sticking to the same bedtime and wake-up time every day
  • Practise breathing techniques and meditation – doing this regularly will help to manage your overall stress levels, but having some breathing techniques on hand for particularly stressful situations can be very useful too.

If you are concerned that stress might be affecting your gynaecological health and would like to book a confidential consultation with a member of our specialist team, please contact us.

/by

Premenstrual Disorders May Indicate Early Menopause

Premenstrual Disorders

A recent study has revealed women who have premenstrual disorders are twice as likely to go through early menopause. This new finding could have important implications for many women’s health.

Here, we’ll break down what the latest research says, how early menopause can impact your overall health, and why regular screenings are important.

Premenstrual disorders and their connection to early menopause

The recent study published in JAMA Network Open, suggests that women with premenstrual disorders may face a higher risk of going through early menopause. Self-reported health data from 3,600 nurses from 1991 to 2017 was used in the observational study.

The researcher’s discovered women were twice as likely to experience early menopause before the age of 45, if they had a premenstrual disorder. While this was only an observational study, prior research has also indicated a similar connection.

Premenstrual disorders can range from mild premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms to a more severe type known as premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD). Both can greatly affect a woman’s daily life. PMS symptoms such as bloating and irritability are the most common, affecting up to 30% of women.

Understanding the health concerns of early menopause

Early menopause isn’t just distressing for many women, it can also lead to several health concerns.

It’s not just about missing your period or saying goodbye to monthly cycles. Starting menopause early can lead to the following health issues:

Bone Health – One of the main concerns with early menopause is the increased risk of osteoporosis. Our bones need the hormone oestrogen to stay strong, and menopause reduces its production. Women who experience menopause earlier may have a higher risk of weakened bones and fractures.

Heart Health – Oestrogen also plays a role in protecting our heart. When menopause begins early, the protective benefits of this hormone are reduced sooner, possibly increasing the risk of heart disease.

Mental Health – The transition into menopause can sometimes affect mood and well-being. Women who undergo early menopause can experience mood swings, anxiety, and even depression. It’s essential to keep an open dialogue with a doctor about any emotional changes.

While these health concerns may seem daunting, there are ways to protect your health if you do go through the menopause early. The key is to stay informed, attend regular health check-ups, and speak openly with your doctor about any changes or worries you may have.

The importance of regular screening

Menopause check-ups can prove invaluable for spotting any potential health problems early on. They are also quick and painless, giving you reassurance and helping to address any side effects that you may be experiencing.

If you suffer from a premenstrual disorder, it doesn’t necessarily mean you will go through the menopause early. However, if you do, regular screenings can help to ensure any potential health issues are picked up early.

Call our friendly team to make an appointment for a menopause health check at SureScan today to keep on top of your pre- or post-menopausal health.

/by

Exercising with Endometriosis

Exercising with Endometriosis

Living with endometriosis isn’t easy. For many, it’s a daily challenge of managing pain, fatigue, and the emotional toll the condition can take. However, one thing that can help to make living with endometriosis a little easier, is exercise.

While the thought of getting active when you’re in pain can sound absurd, there are certain exercises you can do to provide relief.

In today’s blog, we’ll explore the challenges faced when exercising with the condition, and the types of activities you should focus on.

The challenges of exercising with endometriosis

Endometriosis brings with it a unique set of challenges, especially when it comes to physical activity.

Pain, bloating, and fatigue can sometimes make even the simplest movements feel daunting. The inflammation and adhesions caused by endometriosis can cause discomfort, making certain exercises feel more painful than beneficial.

The emotional toll of endometriosis can also sometimes make motivation hard to come by. However, despite these challenges, it’s important to remember the many benefits of staying active, even in small ways.

While it’s essential to listen to your body, finding a balance between rest and movement can help in better managing the condition.

Walking it off – benefits of the Hot Girl Walk trend

One of the best exercises you can do when you have endometriosis is walking. It’s gentle yet effective, and for those looking for something a little higher impact, the Hot Girl Walk currently trending on TikTok could be ideal.

More than just a trend and contrary to its name, the Hot Girl Walk isn’t just about looking your best. It promotes a daily stroll outdoors paired with uplifting tunes or enlightening podcasts to improve your mental health.

While daily walks can lead to well-known physical perks, like better cardiovascular health and improved mobility, the Hot Girl Walk is about internal transformation. During the walk you focus on gratitude, setting and reflecting on personal goals, and recognising and celebrating your self-worth.

It can help you manage both the pain and the emotional issues that come with endometriosis.

Exercises to avoid with endometriosis

While exercise can be beneficial for those with endometriosis, it’s also essential to know which workouts can worsen the symptoms.

High impact exercises, like heavy weightlifting or intense plyometric workouts, can place added strain onto the pelvic region. This can potentially lead to more discomfort.

Some twisting movements, like certain yoga poses, can also cause pain for those with adhesions or cysts. Also, any exercise that places direct pressure on the abdomen or pelvic area, such as certain core workouts, should be approached with caution.

If you are finding it hard to exercise due to endometriosis or pelvic pain, schedule an appointment at the SureScan clinic. Treatments to help manage the condition are available, and could help you get back to the exercises you enjoy.

/by

Are Flu and COVID Vaccines Safe During Pregnancy?

vaccines during pregnancy

Pregnancy can be an exciting journey, but it can also be daunting. You need to keep both you and your baby safe, which includes preventing viruses. But, how safe is it to have vaccines during pregnancy?

With winter on the way, it’s important to think about how you can avoid illnesses like the flu and coronavirus. Read on to find everything you need to know.

Can you have vaccines during pregnancy?

A common question many expectant mothers have is whether it’s safe to receive flu and COVID vaccines during pregnancy. The short answer is yes!

Health experts, including the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), recommend these vaccines as a safe and effective way to protect both the mother and the baby from severe illnesses. These vaccines have undergone rigorous testing and have been administered to countless pregnant women, with reassuring safety records.

Receiving vaccinations can help ensure a smoother pregnancy by reducing the risk of complications related to flu and coronavirus.

Weighing up the risks

To decide whether to get vaccinated, it’s helpful to weigh the risks of contracting coronavirus against the risks of the vaccine itself.

Coronavirus, and its many variants, poses a significant threat to our health. For pregnant women, the risk of severe illness and complications is even higher. On the other hand, the COVID vaccine has been thoroughly studied, showing minimal risks, and proving to be effective in preventing severe illness.

When you’re expecting, your body is working extra hard to create a nurturing environment for your growing baby. This can make you more vulnerable to infections as your immune system is typically weaker throughout the pregnancy.

Sadly, despite the outweighed benefits of having vaccines during pregnancy, fewer pregnant women are getting these vaccines than experts would hope. To illustrate, last year only 35% of pregnant women received the flu vaccine, a slight drop compared to 37.9% in 2021.

When should you get vaccinated?

Timing is everything, especially when it comes to vaccines during pregnancy. For the flu vaccine, it’s generally advised to get vaccinated before flu season is in full swing. This helps ensure optimal protection against the virus throughout the season.

When it comes to the COVID vaccine, health guidelines suggest that it can be administered at any stage of pregnancy. However, consulting with your healthcare provider is crucial to determine the best timing based on your individual needs.

Getting vaccinated at the right time can help you have a worry-free pregnancy while keeping you and your little one protected.

If you are concerned about the risks involved, you can undergo routine tests to ensure the pregnancy is progressing as it should. Our highly experienced consultant gynaecologists at SureScan can offer a range of pregnancy health services and scans to help give you peace of mind, care and support when you need it the most.

/by

Young People Urged to Take Health Precautions

health precautions

As students begin a new term at university, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is urging them to take precautions to protect their sexual health. Both gonorrhoea and HPV cases have increased dramatically in young people, leading to potentially serious consequences.

Here, we look at the rise in sexually transmitted disease, and how to protect your sexual health.

Cases of gonorrhoea increase by over 50%

In 2022, figures showed a startling rise in gonorrhoea cases. The UKHSA reported an increase of more than 50%, bringing the count to over 82,500 cases.

This preventable sexually transmitted disease is most common among young adults, particularly those aged 19-20. Last year, there were around 400 sexually transmitted infections diagnosed every day in young people.

While increased testing might account for some of these rising numbers, experts believe there’s more to it. They suggest that we might be seeing a broader spread of STIs within the community.

Another growing concern is the reduced effectiveness of antibiotics against this infection. As gonorrhoea is becoming more resistant to antibiotics, there’s a risk that it could become untreatable in the future.

Typically, symptoms manifest within two weeks post-infection, but it could sometimes take longer. Common signs include a green or yellow discharge from the genitals, and pain during urination. However, most people don’t exhibit any symptoms at all.

Sexually transmitted HPV rates soar

It isn’t just gonorrhoea rates that are increasing. There has been a worrying rise in sexually transmitted HPV, with some cases leading to oropharyngeal cancer. This type of cancer targets areas like the back of the throat, tonsils, and tongue.

The CDC has blamed HPV as the primary cause behind a staggering 70% of oropharyngeal cancer cases. The trouble is the disease can be difficult to detect.

Data reveals that roughly 3.6% of women and 10% of men experience oral HPV. Although many HPV infections resolve on their own in a few months, there is the risk they could turn into something more sinister like throat cancer.

The HPV vaccine has shown to be highly effective at curbing the transmission of HPV. However, uptake of the vaccine is down, with The National Cancer Institute pointing out that just 54.5% of teens aged 13-15 have received the advised two to three doses of the vaccine.

Protecting your sexual health

Looking after your sexual health is as crucial as any other aspect of your well-being. One of the easiest and most effective ways to stay safe is by always using protection, such as condoms, which can help shield you from risks like gonorrhoea.

With the rising concerns about HPV, getting vaccinated is also a smart move. This vaccine not only keeps you safe from the virus, but also from potential complications. Remember, even if you feel fine, it’s essential to have regular sexual health check-ups. Some issues might not show clear symptoms but can be caught early with routine visits. Without treatment, you can risk serious consequences like pelvic inflammatory disease, ectopic pregnancy or infertility.

To keep on top of your sexual health, book an appointment with one of our friendly, expert consultant gynaecologists at SureScan. They will ensure you receive a fully confidential, best quality of care possible. If any sexual health infections are detected, then treatment can be organised straight away, to help prevent any future health issues.

/by

Painful Bloating? Could Be Endometriosis

painful bloating

Though not an official medical term, ‘Endo belly’ is used to describe the severe bloating and discomfort that often accompanies endometriosis. Affecting one in 10 women with the condition, it is often misdiagnosed as IBS due to its similar symptoms.

In today’s blog, we’ll break down what Endo Belly is, how diet can be used to manage the symptoms, and how to receive a timely and accurate diagnosis.

What is Endo Belly?

Endo Belly refers to the severe abdominal bloating that women with endometriosis often endure. While it bears similarities to irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), it’s generally connected to a woman’s menstrual cycle. The discomfort typically occurs before or during menstruation, although it’s not limited to these times.

A recent study revealed that 96% of women with endometriosis experience painful bloating. Unlike the more generalised bloating that people with regular menstrual cycles might encounter, it can be intensely painful. The factors that cause Endo Belly remain unclear, but theories suggest that a mix of increased gas formation, inflammation, and altered gut microbiota might be to blame.

Some abdominal bloating can be considered a natural byproduct of active gut flora. However, the extreme bloating associated with Endo Belly signifies a far more significant and often debilitating condition.

Can your diet control painful bloating?

The role of diet in managing Endo Belly is an area of growing interest among healthcare professionals and patients alike. While no one-size-fits-all solution exists, certain dietary changes have shown promise in reducing the severe bloating that accompanies endometriosis.

Eliminating or reducing foods known to cause inflammation, such as processed foods, sugars, and certain fats, can offer some relief. Adopting a diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods like fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins may also help.

However, individual responses to dietary changes can vary significantly. Therefore, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare provider for a personalised plan tailored to your specific needs.

Getting an endometriosis diagnosis

Diagnosing endometriosis can be a complex and often frustrating process. Symptoms are easily mistaken for other conditions like IBS, making accurate diagnosis challenging.

A comprehensive evaluation involving clinical assessments, imaging scans, and sometimes even laparoscopic surgery, are required for a definitive diagnosis. Given the complex nature of endometriosis and its symptoms, consultation with gynaecologists, gastroenterologists, and other specialists, is often recommended for a thorough diagnosis and effective treatment plan.

If you’re experiencing symptoms that you suspect could be related to endometriosis, early diagnosis is crucial for effective management and relief. SureScan provides a range of scans that can identify and help diagnose conditions like endometriosis, giving you the information you need for a targeted treatment plan.

Don’t let painful symptoms dictate your life. Schedule a gynaecological scan today and take the first step towards reclaiming your health.

/by

Menstrual Health and Menopause – New Work Standards

menstrual health

The British Standards Institution (BSI) has revealed new workplace guidelines to increase support for women experiencing menstrual health challenges and menopause. This is not just progress; it’s a monumental leap forward.

The new guidelines include initiatives such as workspace modifications, specialised training for managers, and flexible work options. These changes aim to shatter long-standing taboos and ensure that workplaces are not just retaining talent but nurturing it.

What are the new standards?

The new guidelines set by the BSI aim to make work environments more accommodating for women experiencing menstrual health issues or who are going through menopause.

From training managers to be more aware of the unique challenges faced by women, to ensuring facilities are easily accessible, the guidelines offer tangible solutions for immediate implementation.

Companies are advised to scrutinise their existing policies to ensure they address and include considerations for menstrual and menopausal health.

After data from the Fawcett Society revealed that one in 10 women has left a job due to menopausal symptoms, flexible working patterns are highlighted as a necessary adaptation.

BSI acknowledges that experiences with menstruation and menopause can be highly individual, and not everyone will want or require the same level of support. Even so, these standards mark a step forward in creating more inclusive workplaces for all.

Boosting staff retention

With a high number of women leaving their job due to menopausal symptoms, it highlights the need to create more supportive work environments.

By implementing the BSI’s new guidelines on menstrual health and menopause, companies stand to gain significantly. Not only do these measures create a more inclusive environment, but they also contribute to higher levels of employee satisfaction and retention.

Trained managers, flexible working conditions, and amenities designed to alleviate symptoms can transform a difficult period into a manageable one, thereby reducing the likelihood of experienced staff seeking opportunities elsewhere.

It’s a win-win situation; businesses retain valuable talent, and employees feel supported during challenging times.

Help for menstrual health and menopause symptoms

With these new guidelines, women should find it easier to get the support they need at work.

As well as getting help inside the workplace, women are also encouraged to undergo regular health checks. Undergoing a menopause health check or gynaecological scan can help to pinpoint any issues that may be causing unpleasant symptoms.

If you are experiencing issues brought on by your menstrual health or the menopause, schedule an appointment with SureScan today. Early detection and tailored treatments can make all the difference.

/by