Your Changing Bladder

During and after menopause when the amount of estrogen declines, any estrogen-sensitive tissue will begin to thin.  These thinning tissues can be found in the vagina and also in the urethra and bladder.  When tissues become thin they become more susceptible to irritation and infection.  Which is why some women complain of chronic bladder infections after menopause. 

Is it a Bladder Infection?

Suspect a bladder infection if the following symptoms are present, keep in mind that if it is painful to urinate, the infection has established itself and you should seek the care of a primary care provider, like a naturopathic or medical doctor.

• Pressure in your bladder or the need to urinate even if you don't have to or are unable to.
• Frequent trips to the bathroom that may or may not produce any urine.
• Burning, painful feeling when urinating.

Preventing a Bladder Infection

Prevention is always the best route so here are some simple strategies for preventing bladder infections:

• After sexual intercourse, urinate within the hour.
• Minimize moisture retention by wearing underwear with a cotton insert or wear a cotton, washable panty liner.
• Pants that are too tight can cause heat and moisture, both ideal breeding grounds for bacteria.
• Avoid douches, hot tubs and pools that use chlorine that can kill beneficial bacteria.
• Avoid using perfumed products such as scented or coloured toilet paper, deodorizers or sanitary napkins.
• Bacteria prefer an acidic environment so maintain a pH that is more alkalinized by drinking unsweetened cranberry juice or taking cranberry capsules.
• Avoid tampons or a diaphragm or any spermicidal products.
• Take probiotics!
• Vitamin C can help your body fight infection but make sure your dose is high enough, between 1500 and 3000 mg per day.
• Uva ursi in teas, tinctures, capsules and extracts has been found to help fight infections.  When taking this product however, it is important to ensure your urine is alkaline, so avoid animal products, citrus fruits and tomatoes.