5 Menopausal Symptoms Sometimes Mistaken for an STI
5 Menopausal Symptoms Sometimes Mistaken for an STI
And How Pelvic Floor Health Plays a Vital Role
Menopause is a natural part of ageing, but the symptoms it brings can sometimes be difficult to say the least.
To make matters even more tricky, some menopausal symptoms can overlap with those of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
For sexually active women in midlife, that means it can be difficult to decide if vaginal irritation is due to menopause or an infection—adding unnecessary stress! Bacterial vaginosis, thrush, chlamydia and gonorrhhea infections all share symptoms with peri / menopause.
This post looks at the connection between menopausal symptoms and pelvic floor health. We'll show you how your Secret Whispers Kegel Weights can support you through these changes and help strengthen your pelvic floor to prevent these somewhat avoidable discomforts.
Understanding Menopause and Its Impact
Menopause marks the end of woman’s reproductive years. It brings an end to monthly menstrual cycles and is brought on by a natural decline in estrogen levels.
This hormonal shift can affect your body so in many ways. From irregular menstrual cycles to changes in mood, energy, and physical health.
In addition, the period leading up to menopause, known as perimenopause, can last several months or even years, with similar symptoms.
Common (Peri) Menopausal Symptoms
While every woman experiences menopause differently, some common symptoms include:
- Hot flushes or night sweats
- Vaginal dryness and discomfort
- Painful or difficult sex
- Changes in libido
- Fatigue and low energy
- Mood swings and brain fog
- Urinary tract issues
- Itchy vagina or itchy vulva
Many of these symptoms overlap with those of STIs, such as vaginal discomfort, irregular discharge, and fatigue. This can make it tricky to identify the root cause.
Why Pelvic Floor Health Matters During Menopause
A weakened pelvic floor is a lesser-known consequence of declining oestrogen levels. Menopause can lead to thinning vaginal walls, increased dryness, and reduced pelvic muscle strength, causing discomfort during sex, urinary incontinence, and other issues.
Strengthening your pelvic floor muscles can alleviate many of these symptoms, providing improved bladder control, enhanced sexual comfort, and better overall pelvic health. This is where Secret Whispers Kegel Weights can make a world of difference.
How Kegel Weights Help:
- Strengthen Pelvic Floor Muscles: Regular use can combat the weakening effects of menopause, supporting your bladder and uterus.
- Improve Vaginal Comfort: Strengthened muscles and improved blood flow can reduce discomfort caused by dryness and thinning tissues.
- Prevent Incontinence: With stronger muscles, you’re less likely to experience leaks caused by coughing, sneezing, or laughing.
- Enhance Intimacy: By toning your pelvic floor, you may notice increased sensation and comfort during sexual activity.
5 Symptoms Often Mistaken for an STI—and How Pelvic Floor Health Can Help
Looking after your sexual health is important, so please never hesitate to contact your GP or sexual health clinic if you have been sexually active, to rule out sexually transmitted diseases.
We know from our Facebook group that many of you suffer with vaginal dryness and itching which is easily treatable once you know the cause for sure! Read our post on 'Can I do anything about vaginal dryness' for more info.
Painful Sex
Menopausal vaginal dryness and thinning tissues can cause long term pelvic pain, making sex uncomfortable or even painful, much like STIs such as chlamydia or gonorrhoea.
Regular Kegel exercises using Secret Whispers weights can enhance muscle tone and boost natural lubrication, alleviating discomfort.
Irregular Menstrual Bleeding
Hormonal changes can cause irregular bleeding during menopause. While STIs like chlamydia can also cause spotting, pelvic floor strengthening promotes better circulation and hormonal balance in the pelvic area, supporting your overall health.
Vaginal Discharge
Changes in discharge are common during perimenopause but can also signal an infection such as Bacterial vaginosis and thrush. Kegel exercises help maintain a healthy pelvic environment, reducing the risk of bacterial imbalances and improving your vaginal health.
Vaginal Itching or Discomfort
Thinner vaginal tissues are more prone to irritation during menopause, however and can cause a burning sensation when you pee - however it could also be a bladder infection or contact dermatitis. Secret Whispers Kegel Weights enhance blood flow, helping keep tissues healthy and elastic.
Fatigue
Hormonal shifts often leave you feeling drained and impact your immune system too, but pelvic floor exercises improve circulation and core strength, giving you a boost in physical energy. Plus any exercise boosts your mental wellbeing!
Take Control of Your Pelvic Health
While it’s important to rule out STIs if you’re experiencing unusual symptoms or health issues, don’t overlook the role of your pelvic floor health during menopause. Using Secret Whispers Kegel Weights just a few minutes a day can empower you to regain control, alleviate discomfort, and feel confident in your body again.
If you’re navigating menopausal changes and have questions about how Secret Whispers can help, or any other women's health questions, we’re here for you. Join our community of women prioritizing their pelvic health and embracing this phase of life with strength and confidence.
Let’s not settle for discomfort or uncertainty—because every woman deserves to thrive at every stage of life.
If you’re looking for guidance on strengthening your pelvic floor, our blog has resources on exercises, lifestyle habits, and practical tools to help manage urinary incontinence. You may also enjoy these recent articles:
Explore More:
How to Manage Menopause Symptoms Naturally
UTIs and Menopause: Causes, Prevention, and Management
Pelvic Floor Exercises: A Guide for Menopausal Women
Have thoughts on this topic? We’d love to hear from you in the comments. Any questions? Just email us at support@secretwhispers.co.uk and we will get straight back to you.
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About the Author: Secret Whispers was founded by Julie Colan, a passionate mum and health advocate who saw the need for effective pelvic floor solutions. Now, Helen Rankin, the founder of Cheeky Wipes and Cheeky Pants—known for her award-winning work in sustainable product development—has taken the helm at Secret Whispers. Helen is committed to advancing the company’s mission, believing that women shouldn’t have to accept incontinence as a given. With the innovative Secret Whispers Kegel weights, she aims to offer every woman an effective, reusable solution for pelvic floor health. Try them and take control of your wellness journey today!
