Dealing With Menopause

Menopause can affect women in a variety of ways. The effects of menopause can be felt suddenly or felt gradually over time. The body is going through changes, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t ways to help your body adjust. Some changes that can occur are changes to your menstrual cycle, hot flashes, sleep, mood, sex, vaginal health, and bladder control.

Depending on what symptoms you are experiencing and what phase you are in, menopause may affect what treatment options would work best for you. If you feel you are experiencing menopausal changes, it is recommended that you first be evaluated by your primary care physician and/or gynecologist to assess your current state. Your physician can evaluate and assess your symptoms and develop a treatment plan or refer you to a Women’s Health Pelvic Health Physical Therapist, who will provide a more in-depth evaluation of pelvic health-related symptoms in order to improve vaginal health and bladder control.

Some treatments that may be available and appropriate to you are:

- vaginal estrogen (creams/suppositories): to assist with vaginal atrophy and dryness.
- lubricants/vaginal moisturizers: reduce friction; improve vaginal moisture.
- dilator therapy: desensitize soft tissues, enhance myofascial mobility of pelvic floor muscles.
- strengthening program: improve strength, coordination, and control of muscles to improve bladder control.

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