The Loss of Estrogen Through Aging WILL Affect The Bladder Wall
Did your symptoms begin after a hysterectomy?? Were you using medication to stop your periods, such as Lupron? Did they begin during perimenopause or after menopause? After starting a new birth control method? Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause is a common condition that can trigger a variety of symptoms, including:
- urinary frequency
- urgency
- pressure
- pain
- urethral irritation
- vulvar & vaginal irritation
Yet, many women are simply unaware of the role that aging or estrogen loss can play. Many assume that they are struggling with urinary tract infection or chronic yeast infection. Worse, physicians who see clear signs of estrogen atrophy don’t take the time to educate their patients about how their skin may change over time and why estrogen therapy is important.
The bladder, urethra, vulva and vagina rely on a thick, protective coating of mucus to protect the more fragile skin cells beneath. This “mighty mucus” acts as a barrier, preventing ammonia, urea and other irritants to penetrate the skin. It also makes it more difficult for bacteria and other pathogens from infecting cells. Unfortunately, these mucus membranes are estrogen dependent. When estrogen levels reduce, mucus production slows and skin becomes dryer and more vulnerable.
GSM is not a disease process. It is simply aging. Signs can begin at any age.
in urine from irritating tissue and m urothelium relies on estrogen to help produce its protective mucosal barrier. With less estrogen, mucus membranes become dry and more vulnerable to chemical irritation and infection. Urethral irritation is often an early sign of GSM.
Every female patient should monitor the quality and health of their skin “down there.” When the vulva and vagina start to dry, you should assume that the urethra and bladder are also showing signs of dryness.
GSM is not “curable” because it is not a disease. It is a natural part of aging. Therapeutically, your goal is to help the skin produce more mucus, often by using a topical estrogen therapy. Just as a dry mouth hurts, so does dry skin “down there.” Patients frequently use OTC products (organic coconut oil, VMagic, Aloe Gel etc.) to provide more moisture down there. You can find a variety of helpful products in the ICN Shop!