Urinary incontinence is a common issue for many women, especially during perimenopause and menopause. This condition often stems from hormonal changes, ageing, and life events that impact pelvic floor health. Here’s why it happens and what you can do to take back control.
The Role of Hormones and the Pelvic Floor
The pelvic floor muscles act as a supportive sling for the bladder, uterus, and bowel, playing a crucial role in bladder control. However, these muscles can weaken over time due to several factors:
- Childbirth: Vaginal deliveries can strain and damage pelvic floor muscles.
- Hormonal Decline in Menopause: Oestrogen helps maintain the strength and elasticity of pelvic tissues. As oestrogen levels fall, the urethra and vaginal walls become thinner and weaker, reducing bladder control.
- Ageing: Natural ageing affects muscle tone and nerve responsiveness, making it harder to control urination effectively.
Types of Incontinence
Women may experience one or more types of urinary incontinence, including:
- Stress Incontinence
Leakage during activities like coughing, sneezing, or exercising, often caused by weakened pelvic muscles. - Urge Incontinence
A sudden, intense need to urinate that can result in leaks before reaching the bathroom. - Mixed Incontinence
A combination of stress and urge symptoms.
Why Is It So Common During Perimenopause and Menopause?
Research shows that up to 40% of women aged 35–55 experience urinary incontinence, with its prevalence increasing during and after menopause.
Key Contributing Factors
- Declining Oestrogen Levels: Reduced oestrogen leads to urogenital atrophy, a thinning and weakening of tissues supporting the bladder and urethra.
- Reduced Muscle Tone: Ageing diminishes overall muscle strength, including the pelvic floor, further increasing the risk of incontinence.
Solutions for Urinary Incontinence
If you’re struggling with incontinence, there’s good news: effective treatments range from lifestyle adjustments to advanced therapies.
1. Lifestyle Adjustments
- Pelvic Floor Exercises (Kegels): Strengthen your pelvic muscles by contracting and relaxing them regularly.
- Weight Management: Losing excess weight reduces pressure on the bladder.
- Dietary Changes: Avoid bladder irritants like caffeine, acidic foods, and alcohol.
2. Medical and Technological Solutions
Topical Oestrogen Therapy
Localised oestrogen creams can rejuvenate pelvic tissues, improving bladder support and reducing symptoms.
Emsella: A Non-Invasive Option
At The Dr Jenni Clinic, we offer Emsella, an innovative, non-invasive treatment for urinary incontinence.
- How It Works: Emsella uses high-intensity focused electromagnetic (HIFEM) energy to deliver thousands of pelvic floor contractions in a single session, strengthening the muscles.
- Why Women Love It: Significant improvements in bladder control are reported, often with no downtime or discomfort.
Comprehensive Menopause Care
At The Dr Jenni Clinic, we offer more than just incontinence treatments. If you’re navigating perimenopause or menopause, our expert team is here to help.
Dr Naomi at The Menopause Company specialises in holistic menopause care, offering tailored guidance to help you manage hormonal changes and their impacts effectively. Whether you prefer an in-person consultation or the convenience of an online appointment, we’re here to support you.
Take the Next Step
Urinary incontinence doesn’t have to be a silent struggle. With advanced solutions like Emsella and personalised menopause care, you can regain control and confidence.
Contact The Dr Jenni Clinic today to learn more about Emsella or to book a consultation with Dr Naomi at The Menopause Company. Whether in-person or online, we’ll guide you every step of the way.
Take back control—because every woman deserves to feel strong, supported, and empowered.