Menopause is the permanent cessation of menstruation, marking the end of a woman's reproductive years. It typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55 and results in significant hormonal changes.
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
Menopause leads to decreased estrogen levels, which can affect the urogenital tract's normal microbiota.
The reduction in estrogen during menopause increases susceptibility to urogenital infections such as UTIs and bacterial vaginosis.
Postmenopausal women often experience changes in vaginal pH, making the environment less acidic and more prone to pathogenic bacteria growth.
Menopausal symptoms like vaginal dryness and atrophy can contribute to an increased risk of infections.
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can sometimes help restore urogenital health by maintaining a more favorable microbial environment.