Urinary and vaginal symptoms in postmenopausal women: a cross-sectional online survey of Greek women.

OBJECTIVE

This study assessed the prevalence of urological and vaginal symptoms among postmenopausal women in Greece and explored associations with demographic, clinical, and lifestyle factors.

STUDY

DESIGN

A cross-sectional observational online survey was conducted using validated Greek versions of the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire-Urinary Incontinence Short Form and Vaginal Symptoms module. Women aged ≥40 years and within 10 years of menopause were recruited over a three-month period via university announcements, organizations, and social media. Collected variables included age, body mass index, parity, and medical history. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize participant characteristics and symptom burden. Group comparisons were performed using the Mann-Whitney U or Kruskal-Wallis tests, and correlations were assessed with Spearman's coefficient. Statistical significance was set at p < 0.05.

RESULTS

A total of 202 postmenopausal women (mean age 53.97 ± 4.81 years) completed the questionnaires. Urinary incontinence was reported by 65.8% of participants, while vaginal dryness (71.8%) was among the most common vaginal symptoms. Questionnaire scores indicated overall mild to moderate symptom severity. Obese participants had significantly more severe urinary incontinence than normal-weight and overweight participants (p < 0.05). No significant associations were observed between pelvic floor symptoms and physical activity, smoking, educational level, or time since menopause.

CONCLUSIONS

Genitourinary symptoms are highly prevalent among postmenopausal women in Greece, with obesity identified as a key associated factor for severity of urinary incontinence. These findings highlight the need for early screening, systematic evaluation, and individualized management of genitourinary symptoms during menopause.