Understanding incontinence in Women
The Link to Menopause
Incontinence is a condition that many women experience but rarely talk about openly. Often, we’re told it’s a result of lifestyle factors such as inadequate pelvic floor exercises, being overweight, aging, or hereditary predisposition. While these may contribute, they don’t tell the full story. One significant, yet frequently overlooked, cause of incontinence is menopause. Scientific research reveals that hormonal changes during menopause play a pivotal role in the onset of incontinence, making it essential to reframe how we understand and treat this condition.
What is Incontinence, and How Does Menopause Impact It?
Incontinence refers to the unintentional loss of urine, which can range from occasional leaks to a complete inability to control the bladder. During menopause, many women notice an increase in urinary symptoms, including urgency, frequency, and leakage.
The key factor here is oestrogen—a hormone that significantly influences the health of the urinary and genital systems. As oestrogen levels decline during menopause, several physiological changes occur:
Thinning of Urethral and Vaginal Tissues: Oestrogen helps maintain the elasticity and thickness of tissues in the urethra and vaginal walls. A decrease in oestrogen leads to atrophy, reducing the urethra’s ability to seal properly, resulting in leakage.
Weakened Pelvic Floor Muscles: Oestrogen supports muscle tone in the pelvic region. With declining levels, the pelvic muscles weaken, making it harder to control bladder function.
Decreased Bladder Capacity: Studies indicate that oestrogen deficiency can impact bladder elasticity and capacity, leading to increased urgency and frequency.
Neurological Effects: Estrogen also plays a role in nerve health. Reduced levels may impair the communication between the bladder and brain, leading to overactive bladder symptoms or incontinence.
Scientific research corroborates these links. A study published in the journal Menopause found that postmenopausal women have a higher prevalence of urinary incontinence due to hormonal changes.
Chinese Medicine’s Perspective on Menopause and Incontinence
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) views menopause as a natural transition rather than a deficiency or problem. However, it acknowledges that the symptoms—including incontinence—arise from imbalances in the body’s energy systems.
According to TCM:
Kidney Deficiency: The Kidneys are considered the root of reproductive and hormonal health. During menopause, Kidney energy (Qi) and essence decline, weakening the control over the bladder.
Spleen Qi Deficiency: The Spleen governs muscles and tissues, including the pelvic floor. When Spleen Qi is weak, it may fail to provide adequate support to the bladder.
Liver Qi Stagnation: Stress and emotional changes during menopause can lead to Liver Qi stagnation, which may exacerbate urinary symptoms by affecting the flow of Qi to the lower abdomen.
Through acupuncture and lifestyle tweaks, TCM aims to restore balance, strengthen the Kidneys and Spleen, and regulate Liver Qi to alleviate incontinence.
How AcuBath Can Help
At AcuBath, we understand how distressing incontinence can be and how much it impacts your quality of life. As part of our menopause support treatments, we offer specialised acupuncture sessions designed to address the root causes of incontinence.
How Acupuncture Works:
Stimulates specific points to strengthen Kidney and Spleen Qi.
Improves blood circulation to the pelvic region to nourish tissues weakened by oestrogen loss.
Reduces stress and emotional tension to alleviate Liver Qi stagnation.
Additionally, acupuncture is known to enhance pelvic muscle tone and improve bladder control by modulating nerve function. This holistic approach not only treats incontinence but also eases other menopausal symptoms, providing comprehensive support during this transition.
Scientific Evidence Supporting Acupuncture for Incontinence
Several studies highlight acupuncture’s efficacy in treating urinary incontinence. For instance:
This BMC Complementary Medicine and Therapies study aims to compare the efficacy of electroacupuncture with solifenacin, a standard pharmacological treatment, for overactive bladder (OAB), which includes symptoms of urinary incontinence. It reflects ongoing research into acupuncture's potential benefits for urinary incontinence.
Published in 2023 PubMed this review concluded that acupuncture had more favorable effects than sham acupuncture in reducing OAB symptoms and was as effective as conventional drug therapy, with fewer adverse events.
Take the First Step Towards Relief
Incontinence is not an inevitable part of aging or menopause. Understanding the hormonal and energetic imbalances contributing to your symptoms is the first step in reclaiming control. At AcuBath, we combine the ancient wisdom of Chinese medicine with modern research to provide compassionate, effective care tailored to your needs.
Book your consultation today and let us help you navigate menopause with confidence and ease.