Menopause brings many changes. Some that you may have expected and others that are more surprising. One issue that often astounds women is the increase in urinary tract infections (UTIs) after menopause.
Our team at Women’s Specialists of Fayette is dedicated to supporting women’s health at every stage of life. From menarche to pregnancy to menopause and beyond, we develop prevention and treatment strategies that are focused on your personal needs.
We’re happy to help you sort through the confusion menopause sometimes brings, including an increased risk of UTIs. Read more to learn what you need to know, why that happens, and steps you can take to protect your urinary health.
UTIs occur when bacteria enter and multiply in the urinary system, which includes the bladder, urethra, ureters, and kidneys. While UTIs can affect women of all ages, they become increasingly common after menopause.
The primary reason for an increased risk after menopause is the decline in estrogen levels. Estrogen plays an essential role in maintaining the health of the vaginal and urinary tract tissues.
Before menopause, adequate estrogen helps keep these tissues strong, elastic, and resistant to harmful bacteria. As estrogen levels decrease, these natural protective barriers weaken.
The natural aging process, including lower estrogen levels, can contribute to recurrent UTIs through:
The tissues lining the vagina and urethra become thinner and more fragile after menopause. Often referred to as genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM), this condition can make the urinary tract more vulnerable to infection and irritation.
Healthy vaginal bacteria, particularly Lactobacillus, help maintain an acidic environment that discourages harmful bacteria from thriving. Estrogen supports these beneficial bacteria.
When estrogen declines, harmful bacteria are more likely to multiply and migrate into the urinary tract.
Aging and menopause can affect bladder function, sometimes making it difficult to empty the bladder. When urine remains in the bladder, bacteria have more opportunity to grow, increasing the risk of infection.
Recognizing the symptoms of a UTI is important for prompt treatment. Common signs include:
If a UTI spreads to the kidneys, symptoms may include fever, chills, nausea, or back pain. These symptoms require immediate medical attention.
Although recurrent UTIs can be frustrating, there are several effective ways to reduce your risk:
Drinking plenty of water helps flush bacteria from the urinary tract before they can cause an infection.
Avoid delaying urination and try to empty your bladder each time. Urinating after sexual activity can also help reduce bacterial exposure.
We also recommend avoiding harsh soaps, douches, and scented feminine products, which can irritate sensitive tissues and disrupt the natural balance of bacteria.
Based on your symptoms and evaluation results, our providers at Women’s Specialists of Fayette offer a variety of natural, over-the-counter, and prescription therapies to reduce the risk of postmenopausal UTIs.
For instance, low-dose vaginal estrogen can help restore healthy vaginal tissue and support the growth of protective bacteria.
We also offer noninvasive MonaLisa Touch® laser therapy. The gentle laser energy stimulates natural healing in the vaginal tissues without surgery, hormones, or downtime.
Most individuals require three treatments for optimal results. MonaLisa Touch is generally well-tolerated with minimal side effects.
Frequent UTIs should never be ignored. If you experience recurring infections, we can evaluate potential underlying causes and recommend personalized treatment options.
Schedule a visit at Women’s Specialists of Fayette today by giving us a call or requesting an appointment online.
