Managing Urinary Health After Menopause... Enhancing Quality of Life in Later Years

According to Statistics Korea, the life expectancy in our country has steadily increased from 58.7 years for men and 65.8 years for women in 1970 to 80.6 years for men and 86.4 years for women in 2023.

As life expectancy increases, interest in healthy aging has also grown. In particular, women need to prepare for life after menopause, which lasts about 40 years, starting from natural menopause experienced between the ages of 45 and 55.

Menopause is a natural physiological process in which a woman's menstrual cycle ends and ovarian hormone production decreases, causing various physical and emotional changes such as hot flashes, mood swings, insomnia, vaginal dryness, and urinary problems. Especially, symptoms like urinary issues, incontinence, and urinary tract infections after menopause can significantly affect quality of life.

When estrogen levels decrease due to menopause, pelvic floor muscle weakening and bladder function decline can occur. This can reduce bladder contraction strength, making the bladder more sensitive and causing frequent urination, or impairing the ability to fully empty the bladder. Symptoms such as urgency and urinary incontinence may also arise.

Urination. Provided by Clipart Korea

In particular, when urinary function declines, urine remains in the bladder for a long time, creating an environment where bacteria can multiply, increasing the risk of urinary tract infections. Menopause also causes the vaginal and urethral mucosa to become thinner and drier, making it easier for bacteria to invade and increasing vulnerability to urinary tract infections.

Seo Young-eun, head of the Department of Urology at Daedong Hospital, said, “Menopause is a period that affects various parts of the body, including the urinary system, so preventive management is essential to improve quality of life and prepare for healthy aging.” She added, “If urinary problems occur, early treatment with medication, bladder training, and exercise therapy can alleviate symptoms and prevent serious issues. Therefore, it is important to consult a urology specialist and receive appropriate treatment as soon as symptoms appear.”

To maintain urinary health, it is recommended to perform Kegel exercises to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles and improve bladder function, doing 3 sets per day with 10 to 15 repetitions each.

It is important to drink enough fluids to naturally flush out bacteria from the bladder, but avoid beverages that irritate the bladder, such as coffee and alcohol.

Also, do not hold in urine; urinate as soon as you feel the urge to prevent urine from staying in the bladder too long. After urination, always wipe from front to back with toilet paper to maintain hygiene.

Engage in regular exercise suitable for yourself, such as walking, cycling, or swimming, to strengthen pelvic floor muscles and maintain overall health. Since being overweight can put additional pressure on the bladder and worsen urinary problems, manage an appropriate weight through a balanced diet.