Menopause and Pelvic Health

Hands support female reproductive system womb and uterus

What is Menopause?

Menopause occurs when your periods stop due to a reduction in hormones responsible for menstruation and fertility (namely Oestrogen). This affects women, and all individuals who menstruate, between the ages of 45-55, but this can happen earlier.

The tissues and structures within the pelvis are very receptive to changes in oestrogen levels. Menopause can cause these tissues to be dry, less flexible, less supported, and thinner, as the hormone usually keeps the area more supple and lubricated.

As you “go through the menopause”, you are considered “perimenopausal”. This stage occurs from the onset of menopausal symptoms, until you go through your last period. Menopause is established 12 months after your last menstrual period, when you become “postmenopausal”.

Menopause is a natural stage of life for women, but symptoms and timings make everyone’s experience different. To note menopause can be influenced by certain surgeries (“surgical menopause”) or cancer treatments, which can cause more sudden and severe symptoms.
Physiotherapy can help in the treatment and management of some symptoms of menopause, along with other health professionals.

Some common symptoms of menopause

Common symptoms of the menopause include, but this is not an exhaustive list:

Irregular Periods
Mental Health and Mood Changes

Low mood, anxiety, mood swings
Brain Fog (issues with memory and concentration)

Physical Symptoms

Recurrent UTIs
Vaginal dryness and pain
Vaginal Itching
Discomfort during Sex
Reduced Sex Drive (Libido)
Hot Flushes
Sleep Disruption (Insomnia)
Muscle aches/ Joint pain
Weight Gain
Headache/ Migraines
Menopause can also increase your risk of developing certain other issues such as osteoporosis or cardiac disease