Menopause
Menopause is a natural part of the aging process, but the physical changes that come with it can be distressing to some women. As estrogen levels go down with menopause, many women experience what is called the genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM).
The primary symptoms of GSM are:
- vaginal dryness and thinning of tissue which can then cause pain with intercourse
- vulvar burning
- urinary frequency or urgency
- urinary tract infections
- hot flashes
- memory problems
- increased osteoporosis
- depression
Treatment Options
Local hormonal treatment can be a great option for treating the vulvar and vaginal symptoms of menopause. Adding estrogen back to the vulvovaginal tissue can be a safe and effective way to revitalize the area and alleviate symptoms. Low dose local estrogen treatment can be prescribed by your physician or nurse practitioner and is available in a variety of delivery options.
- Creams – these can be messy, but can be applied to the entire vulvovaginal area, which can be beneficial
- Tablets – small tablets inserted directly into the vagina with an applicator
- Rings – inserted by a medical professional to last for three months
Some estrogen rings also deliver hormone therapy systemically, meaning to the entire body. When hormones are delivered systemically, they can also help with the other symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes. Systemic hormone replacement therapy is also available orally and in patch form.
Local Vs Systemic Hormone Therapy
Local hormone therapy has very few risks because it mostly stays in the genitourinary area. Systemic therapy does carry a slightly increased risk of blood clots and breast cancer, but this does depend on the specific medication, dosage, and length of treatment. Every woman is different, and the decision whether to use hormone replacement therapy should be made on an individual basis with your healthcare provider.
There are also non-hormonal treatment options available for vulvovaginal symptoms. These include vaginal lubricants and moisturizers, as well as some non-hormonal medications and in-office procedures like laser therapy.
Pelvic Floor Physical Therapy
Finally, pelvic floor PT can be a great treatment for many of the symptoms of menopause. Pelvic floor PTs can assess the function of pelvic floor musculature which changes with hormonal changes of menopause. Pelvic floor PT’s can help with bowel, bladder, and sexual function to get you back to your optimal state of health. Some specific interventions that can be helpful during and post-menopause include education on sexual health, bladder retraining, pelvic floor muscle strengthening, and manual therapy. Research supports local hormone therapy combined with pelvic floor PT to optimally help women during this time.
We Can Help!
Body Harmony Physical Therapy offers one-on-one treatment sessions and provides individualized treatment programs for each patient. All of our treatments are in a private room and up to one hour appointments are available.
This blog was created for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a health condition or before beginning a new exercise routine.
