Peri menopause and menopause both come with different changes and challenges to the female body. This can manifest as changes in our bowel and bladder habits, changes in our libido and mood, vaginal dryness, brain fog, loss of skeletal muscle mass and poor sleep. The role of a pelvic health physiotherapist during these life phases may include:

• general exercise advice to maintain muscle mass and cardiovascular fitness

• advice on the use of vaginal oestrogen therapy (prescribed by your GP)

• Referral to a specialist GP who has further training in the hormonal management of women in perimenopause and menopause.

• pelvic floor exercises to maintain muscle strength and endurance

• healthy bowel and bladder advice

• referral to a sex therapist

Pelvic health physiotherapists are expertly trained to manage all of the above issues and provide you with advice and management based on your complaint. A combination of exercise, lifestyle modifications and hormonal therapy provides most patients with relief from their symptoms. Finding a specialised GP who has further training in hormonal medicine is strongly advised