Weak Pelvic Floor Muscles: As menopause sets in, the pelvic floor muscles, responsible for preventing urine and faecal leakage, may weaken. This weakness can result in a frequent urge to use the toilet, decreased ability to hold on, and difficulty reaching the toilet in time. Weak pelvic floor muscles can also make it challenging to control flatulence and may contribute to the development of prolapse. ​ Less Elastic Bladder: Aging causes the bladder to become less elastic and have reduced stretching ability. This loss of stretchiness can irritate the bladder muscle, making it "overactive." An overactive bladder leads to increased urinary frequency. Combined with weakened pelvic floor muscles, this makes it more challenging to postpone or control the urge to urinate.

Vaginal Dryness: The decline in oestrogen during menopause results in vaginal dryness, as the vaginal lining produces less mucus. Similar changes occur in the urethra, the tube leading from the bladder. Vaginal dryness increases the risk of urinary tract infections as normal bowel bacteria can enter the urethra. Treatments like vaginal oestrogen cream or an oestrogen pessary can alleviate vaginal dryness, while maintaining proper personal hygiene is essential.

Weight Gain: Many women experience weight gain during menopause, which can strain the pelvic floor muscles responsible for supporting body weight. Weakened pelvic floor muscles fail to adequately support the bladder and bowel, leading to stress incontinence (leakage during coughing or sneezing) or urge incontinence (frequent or urgent need to urinate). Hysterectomy: Women who undergo a hysterectomy or prolapse repair surgery may experience bladder control issues. Pre- and post-surgery pelvic floor exercises should be incorporated into the treatment plan. Anal Trauma/Surgery: Some women may develop bowel control problems during menopause, especially if they have previously given birth. Trauma or damage to the anal sphincter during childbirth may manifest as issues later in life. Pelvic floor muscle exercises can help, but surgical intervention may be necessary for some women to repair the damage.

Understanding how menopause affects bladder and bowel control empowers you to seek appropriate treatment and management strategies. By addressing these concerns, you can improve your quality of life and regain control over your body.

If you're experiencing any of these issues, we encourage you to make a booking to speak to one of our experienced GPs. Let's get this sorted. You'll be surprised at how much we can help you via telehealth.

Urinary incontinence is the accidental leakage of urine, which is a common condition that can often be treated, managed, and sometimes cured.

Here’s a breakdown of what you need to know:

How does a normal bladder work?

A normal bladder:

• Holds up to 600 ml of urine

• Empties four to six times a day and up to once a night

• Empties completely when you urinate

• Allows you enough time to reach the toilet

• Does not leak urine

What are the types of urinary incontinence?

• Urge Incontinence: A strong, sudden urge to urinate that’s difficult to control, sometimes leading to frequent nighttime urination.

• Stress Incontinence: Leakage occurs when you cough, sneeze, laugh, or exercise.

• Mixed Incontinence: A combination of urge and stress incontinence symptoms.

• Overflow Incontinence: The bladder doesn’t empty completely, leading to leakage when it becomes overfull.

What causes urinary incontinence?

• Weakened or overactive pelvic floor muscles

• Pregnancy and childbirth

• Prolapse

• Constipation or straining

• Heavy lifting

• Being overweight or obese

• Chronic cough or sneezing

• Menopause-related changes

• Diabetes

• Pelvic or abdominal surgery

• Certain medications, like diuretics

How is urinary incontinence diagnosed?

Diagnosis involves discussing your symptoms and medical history with your doctor who may ask about:

• Frequency and volume of leakage

• Timing and triggers for leakage

• Any associated symptoms like burning or incomplete bladder emptying

• Fluid intake and urination patterns

They might also test for urinary tract infections or refer you for a pelvic floor muscle assessment.

What are the prevention and management strategies?

• Maintain a balanced diet and healthy weight

• Engage in regular physical activity

• Perform pelvic floor exercises correctly

• Practice good toilet habits, such as urinating only when necessary

• Consult your doctor about possible hormone treatments

If you experience urinary incontinence, it’s important to seek advice from a healthcare professional to determine the best course of action for your situation.

Menopause is a transformative phase in a woman's life, and it often brings about various changes, including difficulties with bladder and bowel control. If you're experiencing these issues, you're not alone. Many women encounter symptoms such as:

• Frequent urination and urgent need to urinate

• Urinary leakage with coughing, sneezing, or exercise

• Leaking urine before reaching the toilet

• Nighttime awakenings to urinate (nocturia)

• Frequent urinary tract infections

• Urgency to have a bowel movement

• Difficulty controlling flatulence

• Constipation

​ Ignoring these problems can lead to worsening symptoms over time, affecting your work, social activities, and personal relationships.

The good news is that incontinence can often be prevented, managed, and even cured.

Seeking help is crucial, so be sure to discuss your incontinence issues with your doctor when addressing your menopause symptoms. There is absolutely nothing to be ashamed of... we help women with the same issues... every... single... day!!