Urinary Dysfunction

Perimenopausal and menopausal women may experience some level of urinary dysfunction. This can range from a frequent urge to urinate, even without a full bladder, to losing control of bladder function, or incontinence. These problems arise because, as the vaginal and urethral tissues lose their elasticity, pelvic muscles may be weakened. Kegel exercises and lifestyle changes, such as giving up or minimizing alcohol intake, can both help with urinary issues related to menopause. If the problem persists or becomes disruptive in your daily life, talk to your doctor about options for prescription medications that can help.

Menopausal women may find themselves facing chronic or frequent urinary tract infections (UTIs) as a result of lowered hormone levels and changes in the urinary tract. These infections can be treated with antibiotics, and your doctor may be able to give you a prescription to keep these pills on hand to treat a new infection as it arises.

Depression and Mood Changes

Just as women with premenstrual syndrome (PMS) experience mood swings or depression as a result of hormone fluctuations during regular cycles, lowered hormone levels in menopausal women can affect the moods and mental states for women. Symptoms that include anxiety, irritability and extreme mood swings can accompany depression, which may be chemically or psychologically induced, because of the major life changes that menopause signals, including the end of childbearing years.

While these feelings are natural, if your symptoms become overwhelming, interfere with daily routines or if depression becomes severe, talk to your doctor or make an appointment to meet with a professional who can discuss options to manage these symptoms and cope with depression, including medication. According to the North American Menopause Society, hormone contraceptives and hormone therapy may work as off-label solutions to deal with some of these symptoms.