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Urogenital

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The vagina, urethra and bladder trigone are oestrogen dependent and gradually atrophy after the menopause.

Absence of oestrogen results in:

  • thinning of the vaginal skin - which may cause severe superficial dyspareunia and bleeding. Many couples may avoid sexual intercourse as a result of the discomfort.
  • lack of glycogen - resulting in a rise in vaginal pH - usually from pH 4.0 to pH 7.0 - and increased risk of infection.
  • reduced elasticity of the bladder - producing frequency and urgency of micturition, nocturia and dysuria.

These changes are not usually apparent until several years after the menopause. Treatment is with topical oestrogen creams or a short course of oral oestrogen.

Vaginal bleeding after the menopause is an ominous sign and warrants careful investigation. Up to 10% of cases are due to malignancy.

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The content herein is provided for informational purposes and does not replace the need to apply professional clinical judgement when diagnosing or treating any medical condition. A licensed medical practitioner should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.

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