Living Well, Ageing Well: Embracing Ageing With Confidence
14 October 2024
As women age, their health becomes more complex, requiring proactive management of issues like menopause, hormonal changes, pelvic organ prolapse, and an increased risk of getting breast cancer.
Sunway Medical Centre Velocity (SMCV) Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, Dr Nor Elyana Noordin
Sunway Medical Centre Velocity (SMCV) Consultant Breast, Endocrine and General Surgeon Dr Tan Yee Ling
KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 11 (Bernama) -- It is essential to address specific health concerns that women face during ageing such as changes in hormone levels, menopause and other conditions such as pelvic organ prolapse, urinary incontinence and the big C - cancer.
The Department of Statistics Malaysia (DOSM) reports that women generally have a longer lifespan than men with an average of five years longer and this results in a greater likelihood of women facing more health problems as they age.
Sunway Medical Centre Velocity (SMCV) Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, Dr Nor Elyana Noordin shared that one of the most significant changes women go through as they age is the transition into menopause which typically occurs between ages 45 and 55.
“During this phase, the body undergoes significant hormonal changes, including a dramatic decline in estrogen and progesterone production.
“The decrease in these hormones can trigger symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness and mood swings. Over time, this could lead to more serious health concerns, such as osteoporosis and increased cardiovascular risk,” she was quoted as saying in a statement issued by SMCV today.
The decline in estrogen levels can lead to discomfort during sexual intercourse, often caused by vaginal dryness and a reduction in vaginal elasticity, Dr Elyana noted.
To manage these symptoms, she said options such as water-based lubricants, vaginal moisturisers, and Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) can be considered, as HRT assists with replenishing estrogen levels, which not only reduces symptoms like dryness and restoration of comfort during intercourse but also hot flashes and mood swings symptoms.
The statement said menopause can also lead to pelvic organ prolapse (POP), a gynaecological condition where the muscles and tissues supporting the pelvic floor weaken, causing the organs to shift from their normal positions.
Women who have had children may be more prone to these conditions, but they can also occur in those who have not.
This is common in post-menopausal women due to the decline in estrogen levels, which affects the strength and elasticity of pelvic tissues.
According to Dr Elyana, symptoms of POP may include a feeling of heaviness or pressure in the pelvic region, a visible bulge or protrusion from the vagina, urinary incontinence, and discomfort during sexual intercourse.
“Women may also experience loss of bladder control or bowel issues like constipation and lower back pain and difficulty engaging in physical activities that involve lifting, bending, or standing for extended periods. This can affect exercise, household chores, and work-related activities,” she said.
POP remains undiscussed due to embarrassment or misconceptions about ageing, despite affecting one in 10 women over the age of 50. Early intervention, however, can prevent the condition from worsening.
Meanwhile, SMCV Consultant Breast, Endocrine and General Surgeon Dr Tan Yee Ling said the reduction in estrogen production during menopause can cause changes such as softening of the breast tissue and slight sagging.
The breast evolves with age and hormonal changes from puberty through adolescent, pregnancy, lactation and followed by a menopausal state. They changed from firm and dense to become more fatty towards menopause.
“Women may notice burning or throbbing pain in their breasts during this time. While these are normal menopausal symptoms, it is essential to consult a doctor if lumps or nipple discharge are present,” she said adding that breast cancer is the most common cancer affecting women in Malaysia, with a prevalence rate of one in 19 women, accounting for 32.9 per cent of all cancers.
Despite a higher risk for women over the age of 50, nearly half of breast cancer cases are diagnosed in those under 50, emphasising the importance of regular screenings even from a younger age.
Alarmingly, 47.9 per cent of breast cancer diagnoses occur at a late stage (Stage 3 or 4), significantly lowering the chances of successful treatment and recovery.
“Early detection is crucial for a better prognosis and access to a wider range of treatment options. Regular at-home self-examinations and mammograms are crucial after the age of 40 to check for any abnormalities such as lumps, changes in breast shape or unusual discharge from the nipple.
“Even if a lump is painless, seeking medical advice for further evaluation is highly recommended,” she said.
For women with a family history of breast cancer or higher genetic risk, Dr Tan advises earlier screenings or genetic testing to detect cancer at an early stage.
These proactive screening measures significantly improve the chances of catching breast cancer in its initial stages, allowing for timely treatment and better outcomes.
As women age, their health needs become more complex, requiring a proactive approach to managing the inevitable changes associated with ageing. Thus, conditions like hormonal changes to pelvic organ prolapse, urinary incontinence and breast cancer often go undiscussed due to stigma, lack of awareness or embarrassment.
“It is crucial for women to recognise the importance of seeking medical intervention early and explore the wide range of treatment options available to improve their quality of life.
“With professional medical care and informed management strategies, women can embrace the ageing process with confidence, maintaining their physical health and mental well-being,” the statement read.
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