Laughter lines and silver strands reflect years of experience and wisdom. Various milestones throughout our lives are gradual reminders of the passage of time sneaking up on us; birthdays, anniversaries, first period to menopause. The more milestones we are blessed to achieve, the better, because it beats the alternative.

Menopause is a time of change in our lives where in our 40’s or 50’s our period finally comes to an end. It occurs when we haven’t had a period in 12 months and on average, most women experience it around the age of 51. This change not only commonly brings with it hot flushes, night sweats, and mood changes, but it also gifts us with occasional bladder leakage. 

Perimenopause generally begins around your 40s and is the transition time before menopause, usually lasting around four years although for some women, it can be five to ten years before their final period. Symptoms can include;

During perimenopause, your menstrual cycle can become longer or shorter, you may skip a period, or the flow may become lighter or heavier. These changes are a result of your diminishing ovarian function and are normal during perimenopause, but it’s still a good idea to talk to your doctor about them as irregular and heavy bleeding can also be a sign of uterine fibroids, Endometriosis or Adenomyosis.

Postmenopausal bleeding can occur 12 months or more after your last menstrual period and occurs in around 10% of women over 55. The bleeding can be light (spotting) or heavy. It can be caused by;

Whilst most of these are generally very simple and treatable causes, it is very important to have any spotting or bleeding investigated in case it is more serious. If it is cancer, diagnosing it early means that treatment is more likely to be successful.

Light bladder leaks can happen to anyone at any age; however, the most common reasons as to why someone may experience it include pregnancy or childbirth, menopause, pelvic floor surgery and medical issues. Light bladder leaks can be triggered by;

Bladder leaks aren’t something you should be embarrassed about. Talk to your doctor who can offer you medical advice on the best way to deal with your type of incontinence.