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Changes in the urinary system during pregnancy. The body goes through many changes during pregnancy. Significant anatomical changes occur in the urinary system. Under the influence of the hormone progesterone, the kidneys and the ureters dilate. This can lead to a slow down in the flow of urine through the ureters and therefore an increased risk of urinary infection in pregnancy.
Menopausal urinary symptoms can also be caused by pelvic organ prolapse, in which one or more organs of the pelvic area drops down into the vagina. This can be due to stress from vaginal childbirth that becomes evident after menopause. Such stress may also cause damage to pelvic floor muscles, also resulting in urinary problems. Whether specific urinary symptoms are related to menopause, aging or a combination of the two is the subject of continuing study.