THE UROLOGY Care Foundation (UCF) is encouraging women to raise urological health concerns that are reportedly common, treatable, and often overlooked.
The official foundation of the American Urological Association said that, whilst urological health affects every stage of a woman’s life, millions quietly live with symptoms they believe are inevitable or untreatable.
Conditions including urinary tract infections (UTI), overactive bladder, urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, and menopause-related urinary symptoms are widespread.
An estimated 60% of women will experience a UTI during their lifetime, the UCF reported, and up to one in three will face urinary incontinence, often after childbirth or during menopause.
Despite how common these conditions are, women are facing barriers to care, including embarrassment, misunderstanding, and outdated information.
Many women delay treatment or abstain from seeking it, leading to symptoms worsening and quality of life declining.
Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause
The UCF continued: one of the most overlooked areas of women’s urological health is Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM), a condition caused by tumbling oestrogen levels that affects the bladder, urethra, and vaginal tissues.
It can lead to recurring UTIs, burning or pain with urination, urinary urgency, frequent urination, leakage, vaginal dryness, and discomfort during sex.
Today’s evidence reportedly shows that low-dose vaginal oestrogen is a safe and effective option for many women with GSM.
The localised treatment directly addresses affected tissues, helping restore bladder and vaginal health, reduce recurring infections, and relieve urinary symptoms, with minimal absorption into the bloodstream.
Women’s Health Month
The UCF’s spotlight on women’s urological care comes in time for Women’s Health Month this May.
It has urged women to prioritise their urological health across various life stages, from learning family histories of bladder or kidney conditions at ages 18-30-years-old, to tracking menopause-related changes at ages 50 and above.
Throughout the month, the Foundation will share educational resources, expert guidance, and patient-friendly tools to help women recognise symptoms and understand available options.
Featured image: AntonioDiaz on Adobe Stock
