Have you ever been told that bladder leaks, recurrent UTIs, painful sex, or pelvic heaviness are just a normal part of getting older?In this episode of Mind Your Being, I sit down with Urogynecologist Dr Mugdha Kulkarni to explore one of the most overlooked areas of women's health: pelvic health during perimenopause, menopause, and beyond.We discuss Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM), why it happens, the symptoms women often experience, and the treatment options that can make a significant difference to quality of life. Dr Kulkarni explains the important role of vaginal estrogen, why recurrent UTIs become more common after menopause, and addresses common concerns about safety and hormone absorption.We also discuss pelvic organ prolapse, urinary incontinence, overactive bladder, painful sex, pelvic floor exercises, and why women shouldn't suffer in silence.This conversation is a reminder that while these issues may be common, they are not something you simply have to put up with.In this episode we discuss:• What a urogynecologist does • Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM) explained • Vaginal dryness, irritation and painful sex • Recurrent UTIs and menopause • The role and safety of vaginal estrogen • Vaginal estrogen alongside MHT/HRT • Pelvic floor physiotherapy and pelvic floor health • Overactive bladder and urinary urgency • Stress urinary incontinence and bladder leaks • Pelvic organ prolapse symptoms and treatment options • Pelvic health in perimenopause, menopause and later life • How to advocate for yourself and seek supportIf this episode resonates with you, please share it with a friend, sister, mother, colleague or anyone who may benefit from knowing that help is available.Bio:Dr Mugdha Kulkarni is a Consultant Urogynaecologist at Monash Health and Cabrini Hospital in Melbourne, specialising in pelvic floor disorders including prolapse, incontinence, and mesh-related complications. She completed subspecialty training in urogynaecology following her O&G training at Monash Health and is involved in clinical research and junior doctor education.Links:https://www.mugdhakulkarni.com.au/Olive & Bee Natural Lubricant (as mentioned by Dr Kulkarni)https://www.oliveandbee.com.auhttps://mindyourbeing.com.au/https://www.instagram.com/mindyourbeingpodcast/https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574785410170#https://x.com/mind_yourbeinghttps://www.youtube.com/@MindYourBeingPodcastThanks so much for listening,Cass xDisclaimer:The information provided on the Mind Your Being Podcast is for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. The content shared on this podcast is not a substitute for professional medical, psychological, or nutritional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical or mental health condition.Reliance on any information provided by the Mind Your Being Podcast, its hosts, guests, or others appearing on the podcast is solely at your own risk. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast creators or hosts.

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