With the average woman living into her late 70s, there are plenty of opportunities for gynecologists to learn about the needs of postmenopausal women. A recent report by the Population Reference Bureau estimated that 40 million people in the U.S. are 65 or older — a number that is expected to reach 89 million by 2050.
Just as younger women may be prompted to visit their gynecologists to address concerns such as endometriosis, fibroids and fertility issues, older women have their own menopause-related health problems to consider. Below are some gynecologic concerns that commonly affect women after menopause.
Menopausal Symptoms
Although some women experience menopause with little discomfort, many patients struggle with mild to severe symptoms associated with estrogen loss. These can range from hot flashes and night sweats to an increased risk of osteoporosis and fractures. Because the choice to start hormone therapy can be a complicated one, gynecologists play a key role in helping patients navigate this decision-making process.
Postmenopausal Bleeding
When a woman has ceased menstruation, it can be alarming to experience bleeding. Although more than 90 percent of women with endometrial cancer experience bleeding, according to the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, most cases will have other causes. Two of the most common are the use of hormone therapy and the age-related thinning and atrophy of the endometrium and vagina. Other frequent causes of bleeding in this population include endometrial polyps, uterine fibroids, hyperplasia, and infections of the uterus or cervix.
Due to the possibility of cancer, however, physicians who practice postmenopausal gynecology need diagnostic tools that can quickly and precisely evaluate bleeding and determine its cause. 3D transvaginal ultrasound is the first-line technique for identifying causes of postmenopausal bleeding. This technology can help to quickly diagnose the problem right from the physician's office.
Vulvovaginal Atrophy
Typically the result of decreased estrogen levels, vulvovaginal atrophy can cause a number of uncomfortable symptoms for more than half of postmenopausal women, according to the International Journal of Women's Health. These can include dryness, irritation, itching, dysuria and dyspareunia, which can have a negative impact on sexual function and quality of life. Because some patients may find it embarrassing to discuss these concerns — or may view them as normal menopause-related health problems — gynecologists should be proactive in raising the topic during appointments.
Gynecologic Care Is Crucial to Postmenopausal Women
Some patients may think that the need for gynecologic care ends with menopause, but nothing could be further from the truth. The years following the cessation of menstruation can pose special gynecologic challenges.
Given the right diagnostic tools to help them understand women's health problems after menopause, healthcare professionals have an excellent opportunity to develop and foster strong relationships with their older patients for years to come.
