Pelvic Floor Symptoms Across Menopausel Stages

Comparison of Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms, Bowel Function, and Sexual Health Across Menopausal Stages in Women

The menopausal transition is associated with substantial hormonal alterations that may adversely affect lower urinary tract function, bowel function, and sexual health. Although these symptoms are common, few studies have comprehensively evaluated all three pelvic floor compartments across different menopausal stages.

The aim of this study is to compare lower urinary tract symptoms, bowel symptoms, and female sexual function among women in the perimenopausal, early postmenopausal, and late postmenopausal stages. In addition, the relationship between menopausal stage and symptom severity will be investigated.

Menopause is characterized by estrogen deficiency, resulting in structural and functional alterations in pelvic floor tissues. Lower urinary tract symptoms, bowel dysfunction, and female sexual dysfunction are increasingly recognized as important health concerns during the menopausal transition.

Despite growing evidence regarding individual pelvic floor disorders, few studies have simultaneously evaluated urinary, colorectal, and sexual symptoms across different menopausal stages.

This study will classify women according to STRAW+10 criteria into:

Perimenopause Early postmenopause Late postmenopause

Participants will undergo a single assessment session. Demographic information together with validated questionnaires will be collected. No intervention or treatment will be provided.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Female
• Age 40-65 years
• Intact uterus and at least one ovary
• Perimenopause or postmenopause according to STRAW+10 criteria
• Able to read and understand Turkish

Exclusion Criteria:

• Hormone replacement therapy within the previous 6 months
• Oral contraceptive use
• Antipsychotic medication use
• Previous pelvic surgery
• Neurological or systemic diseases affecting bladder or bowel function
• Active urinary tract or vaginal infection
• Pelvic radiotherapy or chemotherapy history
• Active gynecological or urological malignancy
• Alcohol or substance abuse during the previous year