I am 55 years old and my last period happened when I was 48. Aside from having hot flushes, I've been symptom-free for the past 4 years. I visited the doctor as I have had symptoms of constantly wanting to pee. I had my urine tested and the results ruled out an infection. The doctor still gave me anti-biotics and mentioned that I was having changes below due to the menopause. They put me on Vagifem, as I was dry and uncomfortable. Is contantly having the urge to pee a menopausal symptom?

Low levels of oestrogen can weaken the bladder so this is a common symptom in the menopause.

Just check how much water you are drinking - most people tend to reduce water in order to reduce the trips to the loo, however, not drinking enough can actually make this worse!

If you don't drink a lot, your urine will become very concentrated and acidic in the bladder and this will actually irritate the bladder, resulting in the need to go.

So it is very important that you keep your fluid intake up every day, however, try to avoid irritating drinks such as coffee, tea, or fizzy/sugary drinks and go for herb teas, water or coffee substitutes.

Stress can also irritate the bladder so if you are
stressed/anxious, you may find AvenaCalm helpful.

Eileen Durward