It’s Not “Just Aging” — What’s Really Happening to Your Pelvic Floor After 40

What if the leaking, urgency, dryness, painful sex, or heaviness you’ve started noticing in your 40s or 50s isn’t just aging—but a sign your pelvic floor needs support?In this episode, Diana sits down with pelvic floor specialist Khyati (Cathy) Merchant, PT, founder of Lotus Physical Therapy and Pelvic Health, to break down how perimenopause and menopause impact your pelvic floor, core, posture, and emotional health.They talk about:How estrogen changes affect your vaginal tissues, bladder, and support musclesWhy symptoms can feel like recurrent UTIs—even when tests come back “negative”The emotional and nervous system connection to pelvic pain and tensionHow posture, TMJ, and whole-body movement tie into pelvic floor functionPractical ways to support your pelvic floor in this stage of life, from moisturizers and lubrication to movement, breath, and pelvic PTWhy getting a pelvic floor “baseline” in your 30s, postpartum, and again in perimenopause can be a game-changerIf you’ve ever felt dismissed or told “that’s just what happens as you get older,” this conversation will remind you: you don’t have to suffer through this alone—and you do have options.Guest: @lotusptph Host: @womenswellnessauthorityEducational only. Not medical advice. Please consult your own provider.Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical, psychological, legal, or professional advice. Women’s Wellness Authority and its guests do not diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any condition. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding your individual circumstances.