Menopause and its impact on bladder and urinary tract 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.