Urogenital Ageing

Abstract

Urogenital complaints such as vaginal discomfort, dysuria, dyspareunia, recurrent lower urinary tract infections and urinary incontinence are more common in women after the menopause. Epidemiological studies have demonstrated that more than 50% of postmenopausal women suffer from at least one of these symptoms. They cause not only discomfort, but may also negatively influence sexual health. Many women are so embarrassed that they are unable to discuss their dilemma with other women or their doctor. Embryologically the female genital tract and urinary systems develop in close proximity, both arising from the primitive urogenital sinus. Animal and human studies have shown that the urethra is oestrogen sensitive, and oestrogen receptors have been identified in the urethra, urinary bladder, the vagina and the pelvic floor muscles. There is now a wealth of evidence to support the efficacy of exogenous oestrogens in the treatment of urogenital symptoms caused by postmenopausal ovarian insufficiency.