Urogynaecological Health:
Urogynaecological health is the health of the pelvic floor of a woman. It is a group of muscles located in the pelvis that contains the reproductive system and urinary tract. Muscular bands called sphincters encircle the urethra, vagina and anus as they move through the pelvic floor.
If your pelvic floor muscles are damaged, the internal organs will lack support. A malfunctioning pelvic floor will display the following symptoms:
- Overactive bladder.
- Incontinence or leaking urine.
- Frequent or painful urinary tract infections.
- Pain, pressure or bulging in your vagina.
These are some of the common health issues that women with urogynaecological health issues face:
- Urinary tract infections (UTIs):
Urinary tract infections happen when bacteria enter the urinary tract through the urethra. These infections are treatable with medication. If UTIs are not treated, they may lead to infection of the kidneys and other health complications.
- Urinary incontinence:
Urinary incontinence occurs due to poor coordination between the bladder muscle and the urethra. This makes activities like laughing, coughing, or exercising lead to urine leakage or a complete loss of bladder control.
- Pelvic organ prolapse:
Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when the pelvic organs fall from their original position in the pelvis. It is the result of damaged pelvic floor muscles which cannot support the organs.
Urogynaecological health is important for every woman and should be a priority for them throughout their life, but especially after menopause.
How Menopause Affects Urogynaecological Health:
Menopause can negatively affect urogynaecological health. Oestrogen levels start to drop which affects the hormonal system and other changes in the body occur.
Where the pelvic floor is concerned, the main impact of aging on the vagina and the hormonal changes is the increased risk of prolapse of the vaginal tissues. Vaginal prolapse occurs when the walls of the vagina collapse. Uterine prolapse occurs when the muscles in your pelvis weaken allowing your uterus to drop down into your vagina. Prolapses happen because lowered oestrogen levels can contribute to the weakening of the pelvic floor.
Urinary tract infections are another result of declines in oestrogen levels. Infection can spread more easily in thinner vaginal tissues and cause a UTI.
Treatments for Post-Menopausal Women who have Urogynaecological Problems:
Surgery for vaginal prolapse is termed as ‘pelvic floor repair’ and involves stitches to support the front and back walls of the vagina. When the uterus enters the vagina there are a variety of options, such as a hysterectomy performed through the vagina or operations to lift the uterus which can happen through the vagina or the abdomen.
HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy) can treat urogynaecological problems as well. It can be used in the vagina in negligible amounts where it is absorbed into the bloodstream.
There are many devices that can help women perform pelvic floor exercises, such as vaginal weights or devices.
If you are a post-menopausal woman suffering from poor urogynaecological health then come to the Urogynecology Clinic Chennai. We have many urogynaecologists have years of experience in treating these issues. You will receive professional and safe treatment from us.
