Hot flushes and mood changes tend to dominate the conversation about menopause, but for many women, some of the most disruptive symptoms happen lower down — new or worsening bladder leaks, urgency, vaginal dryness or discomfort, and pelvic or lower back pain.
These changes are common during perimenopause and menopause, and physiotherapy has a genuine, evidence-based role in managing them.
Why Menopause Affects Your Pelvic Floor
Falling oestrogen levels affect the strength, elasticity and blood supply of pelvic floor tissue, as well as the lining of the bladder and vagina.
This can lead to:
- New bladder symptoms even in women who never had issues after childbirth
- Worsening of pre-existing pelvic floor weakness
- Changes in tissue comfort and sensation that can affect daily life and intimacy
Common Symptoms Women Often Don’t Connect to Menopause
- New or worsening urinary urgency, frequency, or leaking
- A feeling of pelvic heaviness or mild prolapse symptoms
- Increased lower back or hip discomfort linked to postural and musculoskeletal changes
- Vaginal dryness or discomfort affecting daily comfort or intimacy
Many women assume these changes are just something to endure — they’re not always aware that physiotherapy, sometimes alongside medical treatments like topical oestrogen prescribed by a GP, can meaningfully improve them.
What a Menopause MOT Involves
A dedicated Menopause MOT assessment looks specifically at your pelvic floor strength and function, bladder symptoms, and any related musculoskeletal changes.
It builds a personalised plan that may include:
- Targeted pelvic floor rehabilitation
- Bladder retraining strategies
- Practical advice on posture
- Movement and exercise guidance throughout this life stage
You Don’t Need to Wait for Symptoms to Get Worse
Whether you’re just starting to notice changes in perimenopause or have been managing symptoms for years post-menopause, an assessment is worthwhile at any stage.
Earlier intervention generally means a quicker, more straightforward path to improvement.
Navigating menopause and want expert, specific support? Book your Menopause MOT in Handforth today.