TL;DR: As you age, gynecological care remains important even beyond menopause. Common issues like pelvic‑organ prolapse, urinary incontinence, and changes in sexual or vaginal health deserve attention. By staying proactive with regular check‑ups and open conversations with your gynecologist, you can manage these concerns and maintain your quality of life.
For personalized support in the Coral Springs / Broward County area, call the team at Lona Sasser Obstetrics & Gynecology at 954‑340‑1050 or book online.
Let’s review common problems in geriatric gynecology to understand why you’re never too old for a gynecologist.
If you are experiencing symptoms caused by common problems in geriatric gynecology, you may be wondering if you should see an OB-GYN. You may be asking yourself, “should women aged sixty-five and older still be seeing a gynecologist?” As you grow older, you may have new questions about your health. Bringing these questions to a trusted doctor will help put you in charge of your health at every age.
Your health is our top priority at Dr. Lona Sasser Obstetrics & Gynecology. We are here to support you through menopause and beyond. If you are in the Coral Springs area, schedule your appointment today.
Book online or call our office at (954)340-1050.
Should you see a gynecologist?
The importance of seeing a gynecologist doesn’t end with menopause. Several common problems in geriatric gynecology can be diagnosed and treated by visiting a trusted doctor regularly. Practicing preventative care can also help you avoid some conditions, and you may catch health complications before they become serious.
A gynecologist diagnoses and treats conditions that impact the female reproductive organs. However, once a patient’s reproductive years have passed, they should keep seeing their doctor for preventive care, cancer screenings, and physical exams. Some doctors even specialize in geriatric gynecology, making them the perfect support for your continued health.
What are some common problems in geriatric gynecology?
Some common health issues become more of a concern as people age. Below are a few of the common problems in geriatric gynecology. Speak to your doctor if you need support for these common issues.
Pelvic support problems
The pelvic organs include the vagina, uterus, bladder, urethra, and rectum. These organs are held in place by the pelvic floor muscles, a system of muscles that stretch between your tailbone and pubic bone. Layers of connective tissue also give support.
However, pelvic organ prolapse can occur when tissue and muscles can no longer support the pelvic organs, and they drop down. Regular visits to your doctor will help you keep track of prolapse and other pelvic issues. You can speak to your provider about the best treatment options.
Incontinence and bowel support problems
Never be embarrassed about urinary incontinence (leaking urine). It’s a widespread problem. In addition to leaking drops of urine or even emptying the full bladder unintentionally, urinary incontinence can be accompanied by other symptoms, such as:
- Urgency – having a strong urge to urinate
- Frequency – urinating more often than you usually do
- Nocturia – waking from sleep to urinate
- Dysuria – painful urination
- Nocturnal enuresis – leaking urine while sleeping
Fortunately, there are many treatment options available.
Sexual Health
There’s no point when a woman’s sexuality is no longer a relevant part of her experience. Therefore, regular pelvic exams to monitor the health of your body, and STI testing, remain an essential part of preventative healthcare for those who are sexually active. Physical pelvic exams are also crucial in screening for cancers that impact the ovaries, cervix, or uterus.
When in doubt, call your doctor
There are many common problems in geriatric gynecology and many instances where specialized care from a qualified healthcare provider is necessary to feel your best. You may also seek out a gynecologist for urogynecology services or gynecological surgery. If you are dealing with symptoms or want to start building rapport with a doctor you can turn to for many years, make an appointment with a compassionate, reliable doctor.
The respected and friendly doctors at Dr. Lona Sasser Obstetrics & Gynecology are proud to be a top choice for your health care in Coral Springs and the surrounding areas. Contact us to schedule your well-woman exam or another gynecological service.
Book online or call our office at (954)340-1050.
FAQ: Common Problems in Geriatric Gynecology
Q: Do I still need to see a gynecologist after menopause?
A: Yes. The role of gynecological care does not end after menopause. It continues to be important for preventive screening, managing changes in pelvic and vaginal health, and addressing issues like incontinence or pelvic support problems.
Q: What is pelvic organ prolapse and why does it matter?
A: Pelvic organ prolapse occurs when the support structures (muscles and connective tissue) of the pelvic floor weaken, causing organs like the bladder, uterus, or rectum to drop into or press against the vagina. It can lead to symptoms like pelvic pressure, urinary or bowel difficulty, and discomfort during intimacy.
Q: I’m leaking urine sometimes—does that mean I have a big problem?
A: Urinary incontinence is common as women age, but it’s not something you just have to accept. Types include urgency (strong sudden need to urinate), frequency (urinating more often), nocturia (waking at night to urinate), and leaking. Many treatments are available, including pelvic floor therapy, lifestyle changes, and medical options.
Q: What about sexual health after menopause—do changes always mean there’s something wrong?
A: Sexual health remains important regardless of age. With lower estrogen levels, vaginal dryness, thinning tissues, and discomfort during intimacy can occur. These are not “just part of aging” that you must endure—there are safe and effective ways to address them.
Q: Is vaginal bleeding after menopause normal?
A: No. Any vaginal bleeding after you’ve passed menopause (i.e., 12 months without a period) should be evaluated by a specialist. It may signal benign issues like polyps but also more serious conditions like endometrial hyperplasia or cancer.
Q: What screenings or care should older women continue having?
A: Regular pelvic exams are still important. Depending on your medical history, you might need annual or periodic visits. Screening for gynecologic cancers (cervical, uterine, ovarian, vulvar) and bone health (osteoporosis) also becomes more relevant. Even vaginal health, urinary function, and sexual wellness are part of the care.
Q: How can I be proactive about my gynecologic health as I age?
A:
- Don’t skip your annual or periodic gynecologic exams.
- Be open about symptoms like leaking urine, pelvic heaviness, vaginal dryness, or pain during intimacy.
- Ask about pelvic floor therapy, vaginal health options (e.g., non‑hormonal or low‑dose treatments), and cancer screening tailored to your history.
- Keep your doctor informed about general health changes (bone health, cardiovascular risk, medications) because they impact gynecologic wellness.
- Choose a doctor or practice you feel comfortable with—where you can talk freely about issues that might feel sensitive.
Source: ACOG
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