Common Risk Factors And Causes Of Cystitis

Menopause

Dreamstime

Women who are going through menopause are at an increased risk of developing cystitis. Menopause is the stage that occurs after a female's last menstrual period. It is characterized by a loss of estrogen, vaginal epithelium thinning, vulvovaginal atrophy, and lower amounts of lactobacilli in the vaginal microbiota. Estrogen is an important hormone in the body that prevents infection in the urinary tract through several mechanisms. Estrogen increases the natural production of proteins that have strong anti-microbial properties in an individual's bladder. The cells in the bladder infected with bacteria tend to shed as a defense strategy, which leaves underlying cells vulnerable to infection by the bacteria. High estrogen levels help the cells in the bladder bind together better, which helps prevent the shedding associated with infection progression. The general weakening of tissues can be characteristic of postmenopausal women, putting them at a greater risk of prolapse of pelvic organs. The altered structure of the connective tissues near the vagina and urethra have the potential to increase the risk of cystitis in women going through menopause. Additionally, the loss of estrogen and a decrease in lactobacilli in the vaginal microbiota are also known to contribute to the elevated risk of cystitis.

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