Menopause is more than just hot flushes and mood changes. Despite the fact that 50% of the population experiences menopause, there is a lack of understanding about it among both the general public and healthcare professionals. This has resulted in unnecessary suffering for many individuals. Perimenopause, which precedes menopause, typically begins in the 40s and most women will reach menopause by their early 50s. In addition to the common symptoms of menopause, individuals may also experience genital and urinary issues that worsen over time if left untreated. These symptoms include painful sex, urinary urgency and frequency, leakage and burning, recurrent infections, and vaginal dryness. It is important to note that these symptoms are also signs of pelvic floor dysfunction, a condition that affects nearly 50% of women in their 50s.
Systemic menopause symptoms can be managed using systemic hormonal therapy, but this may not be enough for those experiencing GSM symptoms. The North American Menopause Society suggests using vaginal estrogen in women going through menopause to alleviate GSM symptoms.
Menopause is more than just hot flushes and mood changes. Despite the fact that 50% of the population experiences menopause, there is a lack of understanding about it among both the general public and healthcare professionals. This has resulted in unnecessary suffering for many individuals. Perimenopause, which precedes menopause, typically begins in the 40s and most women will reach menopause by their early 50s. In addition to the common symptoms of menopause, individuals may also experience genital and urinary issues that worsen over time if left untreated. These symptoms include painful sex, urinary urgency and frequency, leakage and burning, recurrent infections, and vaginal dryness. It is important to note that these symptoms are also signs of pelvic floor dysfunction, a condition that affects nearly 50% of women in their 50s.
Systemic menopause symptoms can be managed using systemic hormonal therapy, but this may not be enough for those experiencing GSM symptoms. The North American Menopause Society suggests using vaginal estrogen in women going through menopause to alleviate GSM symptoms.
Differential Diagnosis:
GSM or Pelvic Floor Dysfunction
Common Symptoms of Pelvic Floor Dysfunction and GSM:
- Urgent and frequent urination, with a burning sensation and increased nighttime trips to the bathroom
- Pressure or discomfort in the bladder or pelvic area
- Painful sexual intercourse
- Reduced or nonexistent orgasms
- Difficulty with bowel movements
- Pain and burning in the vulvovaginal area
- Discomfort when sitting
If you experience these symptoms, it is important to seek evaluation and treatment from a healthcare professional at Menopause Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy in Los Gatos.
A knowledgeable healthcare provider, such as a pelvic floor physical therapist or medical doctor, can perform various tests and examinations to evaluate and address issues related to the vulvovaginal area. These include visual examinations, q-tip tests to pinpoint areas of pain, and manual examinations to identify pelvic floor dysfunction, hormonal imbalances, and pelvic organ prolapse. It’s important to note that all women will experience genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) if left untreated. However, many people are unaware that menopausal women can benefit from pelvic floor physical therapy to address not only their discomfort but also any musculoskeletal factors contributing to their symptoms. Combining pelvic floor physical therapy with appropriate medical management at Menopause Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy in Los Gatos is crucial for restoring pleasurable sexual function and alleviating urinary and bowel concerns.
FACTS
From: https://www.letstalkmenopause.org/further-reading
- Every day, 6000 women reach menopause.
- There are currently 50 million menopausal women in the US.
- 84% of women experience discomfort in their genital, sexual, and urinary health that won’t go away on its own, but less than 25% seek assistance.
- 80% of OBGYN residents admit to lacking preparation for discussing menopause.
- 90% of postmenopausal women are clinically detected with GSM, but only ⅓ actually report symptoms.
- Barriers to treatment include women having to initiate the conversation, believing symptoms are a normal part of aging, and not linking symptoms to menopause.
- Only 13% of healthcare providers ask their patients about menopause symptoms.
- Despite studies showing a negative impact on quality of life, most women with GSM remain untreated even after being diagnosed. This is due to providers hesitating to prescribe treatment and patient concerns about safety profiles of topical vaginal therapies.
Hormone insufficiency can cause itching in the genital area. Other skin problems like Lichen Sclerosus and yeast infections should also be taken into account.
Menopausal individuals are at risk of experiencing frequent vaginal and urinary tract infections for the following reasons:
- pH and tissue changes
- Incomplete bladder emptying
- Pelvic organ prolapse, which impairs urinary function
Recurrent infections are a major cause of pelvic floor dysfunction. It is important to stop these infections, as the lingering effects can lead to more pain and dysfunction even after the infection is gone. Additionally, if these infections are not treated with hormone therapy, they can continue to occur and result in serious consequences. Women may experience unexplained pain, difficulties with sex, and undetected UTIs can lead to kidney problems and other serious issues.
Work with a menopause expert at Menopause Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy in Los Gatos to address and resolve these important issues. It’s crucial to have open conversations and seek appropriate care for vaginal health. Don’t be embarrassed – there are effective treatments available, allowing vulva owners to enjoy their lives to the fullest. Pelvic floor physical therapy and medical management are key components towards achieving optimal results.
How We Can Help You
Concerned about your sexual function? Consider pelvic floor therapy with a therapist at Menopause Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy in Los Gatos to identify any issues and find relief. Get a thorough evaluation covering your medical history, symptoms, and previous treatments. Our experienced physical therapist will assess your nerves, muscles, joints, tissues, and movement patterns. After the exam, we’ll discuss the results and establish therapy goals. Expect weekly sessions for about 12 weeks, complemented by at-home exercises. We’ll work alongside your treatment team to ensure a comprehensive recovery. Let us help you improve and live your best life.
Explore our IC/PBS Resource List for more information.
How We Can Help You
Concerned about your sexual function? Consider pelvic floor therapy with a therapist at Menopause Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy in Los Gatos to identify any issues and find relief. Get a thorough evaluation covering your medical history, symptoms, and previous treatments. Our experienced physical therapist will assess your nerves, muscles, joints, tissues, and movement patterns. After the exam, we’ll discuss the results and establish therapy goals. Expect weekly sessions for about 12 weeks, complemented by at-home exercises. We’ll work alongside your treatment team to ensure a comprehensive recovery. Let us help you improve and live your best life.
Explore our IC/PBS Resource List for more information.
