Menopause itself does not directly cause bacterial infections. However, the hormonal changes associated with menopause can make some women more susceptible to certain types of infections.
The drop in estrogen levels that occurs during menopause leads to changes in the vaginal tissue. The walls of the vagina become thinner and less elastic. This can cause dryness and irritation in the vaginal area. The normal bacteria found in the vagina can then overgrow, creating an imbalance called bacterial vaginosis.
Bacterial vaginosis is not necessarily harmful, but it does increase a woman's risk for other infections:
- Yeast infections - The itching and burning of a yeast infection can be quite bothersome. Yeast thrive in the alkaline environment caused by bacterial overgrowth.
- Urinary tract infections - Thinning vaginal walls can lead to more UTIs as well. The urethra becomes prone to colonization of bacteria like E. coli.
- Sexually transmitted infections - When the vagina is dry and irritated, small tears can form during intercourse. These tears allow organisms like herpes or human papillomavirus easier access to the tissue and bloodstream.
In addition to vaginal changes, menopause causes changes throughout the urinary tract. Weakened pelvic muscles can prevent complete emptying of the bladder. Residual urine allows harmful bacteria to grow, putting a woman at further risk for urinary tract infections.
What steps can be taken to prevent infections?
There are several ways women can reduce infections during menopause:
- Vaginal moisturizers and lubricants - Using moisturizers like Replens on a regular basis can relieve vaginal dryness and irritation. Water-based lubricants can reduce friction during sex.
- Vaginal estrogen therapy - Local estrogen creams, tablets, or rings help restore thinning vaginal tissue. This helps prevent tears and irritation during intimacy.
- Cranberry supplements - Cranberry is thought to prevent bacteria like E. coli from adhering to the bladder walls. Taking cranberry pills regularly may reduce recurrent UTIs.
- Probiotics - Consuming probiotic foods helps maintain normal vaginal flora. Yogurt with live cultures is a good source of lactobacilli to fight yeast overgrowth.
- Good hygiene - Avoiding potential irritants like douches, scented soaps, and laundry detergent with fragrance can help sensitive tissues. Cotton underwear and loose clothing reduces irritation as well.
- Empty bladder completely - Make sure to empty the bladder fully when urinating to avoid residual urine buildup.
If bacterial infections do occur, prompt medical treatment is important, especially for high-risk infections like STDs.
Antibiotics,
antifungals and antiviral medications are effective for most vaginal and urinary tract infections. Making sure partners get treated as well can prevent passing infections back and forth.
The hormonal roller coaster of
menopause can definitely make women more prone to bacterial invaders. But with some simple preventive care and lifestyle measures, infections can usually be avoided or quickly cleared up if they do occur. Maintaining vaginal health is vital for the quality of life during this transitional time.
At
Optimal Hormone Wellness Center, our experienced physicians specialize in helping women navigate menopause comfortably and confidently. We provide customized
hormone therapy including high quality
bioidentical hormones to help relieve difficult symptoms like vaginal atrophy. Contact us today to learn more about optimizing your health during the menopausal years!
