Is peeing in my pants a sign of menopause?

Verified by Dr. Vaishali Sakpal Rane (MBBS, DGO Obstetrics and Gynaecology, DNB Obstetrics and Gynaecology)

Are you in your forties and realising that you're leaking urine, can't always make it to the bathroom on time, or need to get up in the middle of the night to urinate? You may be wondering if it has anything to do with the hormonal changes that occur throughout menopause and the period before it (perimenopause).

After all, as your oestrogen levels fall during this time, a lot of changes may take place in your body. Additionally, wetting yourself on top of other difficult menopausal symptoms may make you feel particularly depressed or ashamed. According to several research, the likelihood of developing the two most typical types of female urine incontinence increases as you get older.

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Menopause has been related to stress incontinence, which is when you leak urine when your bladder is suddenly under greater pressure. You're also more likely to develop urge incontinence as you age, which is a sign of an overactive bladder that causes you to urinate more frequently and urgently than usual and may not always make it to the bathroom in time. Falling oestrogen levels are associated with a variety of symptoms, including night sweats and hot flashes, during the menopause and perimenopause. Additionally, oestrogen is believed to support the maintenance of strong muscles, so when levels fall, your muscles may weaken. According to some study, urinary incontinence is caused by low oestrogen weakening the pelvic floor muscles, which extend across the base of the pelvis and help you hold in urine.

But keep in mind that you don't have to tolerate urine incontinence or any other menopausal symptoms. You should always visit a doctor if it is interfering with your life.

Midlife incontinence might be awkward or embarrassing to discuss, but it's crucial to seek the support you require. Doctors are accustomed to providing treatment for it because many women suffer from it. Your doctor can examine you and determine what kind of incontinence you have. They may suggest you seek out specialised assistance if necessary.