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. 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.
Menopause and Pelvic Health
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.
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.
Some common symptoms of menopause
Common symptoms of the menopause may include (this is not an exhaustive list):
Irregular Periods
Mental Health and Mood Changes
Irregular Periods
Mental Health and Mood Changes
- Low mood, anxiety, mood swings
- Brain Fog (issues with memory and concentration)
- Recurrent urinary tract infections (UTI)
- 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
Tayside Sexual & reproductive Health services have a page on menopause that can be really helpful. They also have a Menopause Padlet with lots of great information on support and resources, events and webinars, menopause and the workplace, menopause and relationships and mental health.