Researchers set out to explore whether declining estrogen levels during the menopause transition are associated with changes in intimate and pelvic wellness — and what the data actually shows. Their literature review confirmed an association, though the authors note that age must also be considered and that the connection cannot be solely attributed to the menopause transition itself.

Per the study: "The abundance of estrogen receptors in the urogenital tract explains why the natural reduction of endogenous estrogen, the hallmark of menopause, can cause or potentiate PFDs and rUTIs. A substantial body of epidemiological literature suggests an association between menopause, and PFDs and rUTIs; however, the ability to separate this association from age and other comorbid conditions makes it difficult to draw definitive conclusions on the role of menopause alone in the development and/or progression of PFDs."

Link: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6376984/