" The Change": How Pelvic Physiotherapy Helps Manage Menopause

When we talk about menopause, the conversation usually revolves around hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings. But there is a silent symptom that affects up to 50% of post-menopausal women, yet is rarely discussed at the dinner table: Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM).

As estrogen levels drop, the tissues of the vulva, vagina, and urethra can become thinner, drier, and less elastic. This isn't just "aging" - it's a physiological change that can drastically affect your quality of life.

What Does Menopause Do to the Pelvic Floor? Estrogen acts as a natural "plumper" for pelvic tissues. Without it, you might experience:

• Vaginal Atrophy: A feeling of dryness, burning, or itching that doesn't go away.

• Dyspareunia: Pain during intercourse due to thinned tissues and a lack of natural lubrication.

• Urgency & Frequency: The urethra also thins, making the bladder feel "twitchy" or prone to infections (UTIs).

• Prolapse Progression: As tissues lose collagen support, existing prolapses may become more symptomatic.

  
  

It’s Not "Game Over" - It’s Time for a New Strategy Many women accept these changes as inevitable. At Milton Physio Plus, we believe you can thrive during and after menopause. Our treatment plans for GSM often include:

• Safe Lubrication & Moisturizers: We guide you through the pharmacy aisle to find non-hormonal products that actually restore tissue health (hyaluronic acid, etc.).

• Blood Flow Exercises: Motion is lotion. Targeted exercises bring fresh blood supply to the pelvic tissues, improving elasticity.

• Dilator Therapy: If tissues have tightened or narrowed, we provide gentle, graded programs to restore capacity and comfort for intimacy.

• Strength vs. Release: Determining if your muscles have become weak (atrophy) or tight (guarding against pain).

Menopause is a new chapter, not the end of the book. Let us help you turn the page with confidence and comfort.