Let's talk about something that doesn't get enough attention: your pelvic floor during perimenopause. You've probably heard of menopause, but perimenopause? That's the transition period leading up to menopause, and it can start as early as your late 30s or early 40s. During this time, your body goes through some significant changes, and your pelvic floor is no exception. So, let's dive in and understand what's really going on down there!
What's the Deal with the Pelvic Floor?
First things first: what exactly is the pelvic floor? Think of it as a hammock of muscles, ligaments, and tissues that support your pelvic organs – your bladder, uterus, and rectum. It's not just about holding things in place, though. Your pelvic floor plays a crucial role in bladder and bowel control, sexual function, and even core stability.
Hormonal Roller Coaster: Perimenopause and Your Body
During perimenopause, your body starts to decrease its production of estrogen and progesterone. It's not a smooth decline – think more of a rollercoaster with ups and downs. These hormonal fluctuations don't just affect your mood or cause hot flashes; they have a significant impact on your pelvic floor too.
Estrogen, in particular, is a superstar when it comes to pelvic health. It helps keep the tissues of your pelvic floor strong, elastic, and well-lubricated. As estrogen levels start to dip, you might notice some changes.
What Changes You Might Experience During Perimenopause?
Let's break down some common pelvic floor symptoms you might encounter during perimenopause:
Urinary Changes: You might find yourself running to the bathroom more often, or maybe you leak a little when you laugh or sneeze. This is because the declining estrogen can weaken the tissues that support your bladder and urethra.
Vaginal Dryness and Discomfort: Less estrogen means less natural lubrication, which can lead to discomfort, especially during sex. The vaginal tissues might also become thinner and more fragile.
Pelvic Organ Prolapse: This sounds scarier than it is. As the pelvic floor muscles weaken, your pelvic organs might start to descend a bit. You might feel a heaviness or pressure in your pelvic area.
Changes in Sexual Function: Between the dryness and the potential discomfort, sex might not feel the same as it used to. But don't worry – there are ways to address this!
Keeping Your Pelvic Floor Happy during Perimenopause
Now for the good news: there's a lot you can do to maintain your pelvic floor health during perimenopause!
Lifestyle Factors: Your overall health impacts your pelvic floor. Staying hydrated, eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and maintaining a healthy weight can all contribute to better pelvic health.
Stress Management: Chronic stress can tighten your pelvic floor muscles, leading to pain and dysfunction. Try incorporating stress-reduction techniques like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises into your routine.
When Should You Seek Help for your Perimenopause symptoms?
Listen, we get it. Talking about pelvic floor issues can feel embarrassing. But here's the thing: these issues are common, and more importantly, they're treatable. If you're experiencing ongoing discomfort, leaking urine, pain during sex, or a feeling of heaviness in your pelvic area, it's time to talk to a professional.
A pelvic floor physical therapist can assess your pelvic floor function and create a treatment plan tailored to your needs. This might include specialized exercises, manual therapy techniques (like massage), or advice on lifestyle modifications.
Empowering Yourself: Perimenopause Knowledge
Understanding what's happening in your body during perimenopause is the first step in taking control of your health. Don't be afraid to ask questions, seek help when you need it, and advocate for yourself with healthcare providers. Remember, perimenopause is a natural transition, not a disease. With the right knowledge and support, you can navigate this phase of life with confidence.
Perimenopause brings changes, sure, but it's also an opportunity to get to know your body better and prioritize your health. Your pelvic floor has supported you through many of life's adventures – now it's time to return the favor!
Ready to take charge of your pelvic health? We're here to help! Schedule a consultation with our expert team to learn more about how we can support you through perimenopause and beyond. Remember, a strong pelvic floor means a stronger you!
If you’re interested in learning more, join us for the Menopause Masterclass 7/31/24. A FREE webinar to debunk myths on menopause and give you digestible information on what you can do to start relieving your frustrating symptoms during the menopause transition. Join us HERE