MidLife
Urinary Tract Changes
As estrogen levels decline during midlife, several body systems are affected including the urinary system. The lining of the bladder responds to lower estrogen levels by becoming thinner and more easily irritated. This means that some women will experience problems with bladder infections or other urinary symptoms.
During menopause, there is an increased chance of vaginal and urinary tract infections. If symptoms such as painful or overly frequent urination occur, consult your health care provider. Infections are easily treated with antibiotics, but tend to come back in certain individuals. To help prevent these infections, urinate before and after intercourse, be sure your bladder is not full for long periods of time, drink plenty of fluids, and keep your genital area clean. Douching is not thought to be effective in preventing vaginal and urinary infections.
