Liz, our pelvic health physio recently took a closer look at the recommendations coming out of the Senate Report, “Issues related to menopause and perimenopause”. Here she gives an overview of the recommendations and how she supports people on their menopause journey.
The Senate Report, “Issues related to menopause and perimenopause”, was released in September 2024. There are 25 recommendations and what I noticed was a focus on education and data collection and analysis.
Further education and awareness for the general public and health care professionals about menopause - symptoms, impact, management and treatment - will hopefully lead to improvements in the availability of support through Government programs, workplaces and when visiting the GP, physio or other care providers.
A concerted effort on analysing new data about menopause will inform all aspects of our society. It will help us demonstrate gaps in knowledge, oversights and inequities in policy, promote workplace equity and diversity and improve flexibility and access to appropriate and affordable management and treatment.
It can take some time for a shift to be noticeable but I’m pleased that there is now an overarching Government position on recognising and responding to the far reaching impacts of menopause.
With this in mind, here the things I typically on as a pelvic health physio when supporting patients who are going through menopause.
Pelvic Floor Health – As we age and our hormone profile changes many people can notice symptoms that indicate changes in pelvic floor strength and function. This is where guided and specific pelvic floor muscle training is essential.
Bladder and Bowel Function – Rushing to get to the toilet, frequent urination, leaking urine or gas, constipation, diarrhoea, urinary tract infections, the list goes on! In addition to pelvic floor muscle training, treatment might also include composure or bladder retraining, broad dietary advice, electrical nerve stimulation and referral for localised hormone therapy such as vaginal oestrogen.
Sexual Pleasure – Or not! This is where referral for localised hormone support therapy becomes important, but there is also a roll for pelvic floor muscle training. Often the focus is on softening, rather than strengthening the muscles.
Exercise – The most important thing is to find something you enjoy! Weight-bearing and resistance exercise is what we know is best during menopause as it promotes bone health and improves muscle strength and function. It’s also great for your mood.
Hormone Therapy – I can provide broad advice about what’s available and what you might find beneficial, and recommend GPs and specialists to support your hormone therapy journey. At Fundamental Health we also have a wonderful naturopath who provides additional advice and guidance on diet and supplements that may also be helpful.