Hormones play a bigger role in bladder health than most women realize. In this week's episode of "while you wait…" podcast, I break down how estrogen shifts during perimenopause, menopause, postpartum, and even certain birth control methods can affect urgency, leaking, and pelvic floor function. I also explain why vaginal estrogen may be part of the solution, common risk factors for incontinence, and how lifestyle factors like weight, sleep, and stress can make symptoms better or worse.

Timeline:

00:30 Introduction and Overview

01:04 Hormonal Changes and Bladder Health

04:50 Genetic and Risk Factors for Incontinence

07:31 Non-Hormonal Factors Affecting Incontinence

09:28 Communicating Symptoms with Doctors

12:40 Hormone Therapy and Bladder Symptoms

15:15 Conclusion and Final Thoughts