Why do bladder problems occur during menopause?
The hormonal changes during menopause are the main reason why many women develop bladder problems such as irritable bladder during menopause. The decline in estrogen production leads to a degeneration of the mucous membranes in the vagina, uterus, bladder and urethra. At the same time, the pelvic floor and the surrounding connective tissue lose firmness and elasticity, which can impair bladder function.
The loss of tone and elasticity in the urinary tract and the genitals can cause the bladder to sink slightly. This makes it difficult to consciously control bladder emptying and bladder closure. One in five women between the ages of 40 and 50 struggle with incontinence during the menopause. An irritable bladder that leads to a strong or frequent urge to urinate is just as common as unintentional loss of urine (incontinence) during physical exertion such as laughing, sneezing or heavy lifting.
In addition, gynecological procedures, such as removal of the uterus or operations for uterine prolapse, can promote loosening of the pelvic floor and thus aggravate bladder problems such as an irritable bladder.
What can you do about bladder weakness during menopause?
Bladder weakness is common during the menopause, but don't worry - if detected early and treated correctly, these problems can be easily managed. It is important to act quickly as soon as an increased urge to urinate occurs. The earlier the problem is detected, the better it can be addressed.
Pelvic floor training
Pelvic floor muscle training is a non-drug treatment option that can be effective for a variety of bladder problems. It involves performing specific exercises to strengthen the muscles in the pelvic floor area and improve bladder control. These exercises aim to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles to support the urethra and prevent involuntary urine loss.
Surgical procedures or pessaries
Surgery and pessaries are therapeutic options for women with symptoms of uterine or bladder prolapse, which are often associated with incontinence. Uterine or bladder prolapse occurs when the uterus or bladder sinks into the vagina due to weakness of the connective tissue and pelvic floor muscles. This can lead to symptoms such as urinary incontinence, problems with urination and pain during intercourse.
Surgical interventions may be necessary in advanced cases to support the affected organ and relieve symptoms. These procedures are usually performed by a gynecologist and require careful follow-up care to aid recovery.
Pessaries are medical devices inserted into the vagina to support the uterus or bladder. They work by applying pressure to the affected organs, returning them to their natural position. Pessaries can be a non-surgical alternative. They are individually fitted and require regular checks to ensure they fit properly and are not causing discomfort.
Physiotherapy or electrical stimulation therapy
Physiotherapy and electrical stimulation therapy are non-invasive treatment methods designed to support bladder function and treat various types of bladder problems, including incontinence.
Physiotherapy aims to strengthen and train the muscles of the pelvic floor. This is done through targeted exercises that improve the coordination, strength and endurance of the pelvic floor muscles. A specialized physiotherapist can develop individual exercise programs tailored to the needs and symptoms of each individual patient. Through regular exercise, patients can learn to improve their bladder control and reduce incontinence symptoms.
Electrotherapy, also known as electrical stimulation, uses electrical impulses to stimulate the muscles of the pelvic floor. This can help improve muscle strength and control, as well as regulate bladder function. During treatment, electrodes are placed on specific points on the body to send targeted electrical signals to the pelvic floor muscles. This can help regulate muscle contractions and improve bladder control.
Both physiotherapy and electrical stimulation therapy can be used in combination with other therapies such as pelvic floor exercises and behavioral therapy to achieve optimal results. The selection of the appropriate therapy method depends on the individual needs and diagnosis of the patient and should be made in consultation with a qualified specialist.
Behavioral training
Behavioral training is a non-pharmacological therapy method that aims to improve the management of bladder problems, especially in people with overactive bladder or frequent urination. It involves keeping a bladder diary to document the pattern of urinary urgency and triggers for excessive urination.
By keeping a bladder diary, people can better understand their bladder patterns and identify factors that may trigger or increase urinary urgency. This allows them to make targeted behavioral changes to control urinary urgency and regulate bladder function.
The bladder diary can also be used to monitor the effectiveness of other treatment approaches such as medications, pelvic floor exercises or physical therapy. By recording data such as the volume of fluid urinated, frequency of toileting and occurrence of incontinence episodes, sufferers and their doctors can individually tailor and optimize treatment.
In addition, behavioral training may also include relaxation techniques and bladder training, where people learn to control their urge to urinate and train their bladder to allow longer intervals between trips to the toilet. This can help increase bladder capacity and improve control over voiding.
Overall, behavioral training is an important component in the treatment of bladder problems and can help improve the quality of life of those affected by giving them the tools and strategies to control their urination and lead an active life.
Aids
Aids such as incontinence products play a crucial role in the everyday lives of people with bladder problems, especially in menopausal women who suffer from an irritable bladder. Incontinence products such as pads and special incontinence underwear not only offer reliable protection against unwanted urine loss, but also comfort and discretion.
Pads are thin and discreet and can be easily worn inside underwear to absorb small leaks and keep clothes dry. They are available in different absorbency levels to suit individual needs. Special incontinence underwear, on the other hand, is similar to regular underwear and offers a snug, secure fit as well as additional protection against leaks and odor.
The use of devices allows people to continue with their normal daily lives despite bladder problems. They can continue with their daily activities without having to worry about uncomfortable situations or possible leakage.
forma-care products offer maximum protection and comfort so that you can feel safe and carefree in every situation and enjoy your life – even with bladder problems during the menopause.