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The Role of Local Hormone Replacement in Overactive Bladder

  • Overactive Bladder (U Lee and S Adelstein, Section Editors)
  • Published:
Current Bladder Dysfunction Reports Aims and scope Submit manuscript

Abstract

Purpose of Review

Overactive bladder (OAB) is a common and distressing condition which is known to increase with age and to have a significant effect on quality of life (QoL). Whilst OAB is a symptomatic diagnosis, many patients will require basic investigations prior to initiating the appropriate management. This paper will explore the prevalence and pathophysiology of OAB as well as diagnosis and management of the condition.

Recent Findings

There is increasing evidence that local oestrogen therapy may be beneficial in the management of postmenopausal women with OAB, either when used alone or as combination therapy with an antimuscarinic drug. This paper will review the postulated mechanisms of action as well as exploring the available evidence base supporting efficacy.

Summary

There is now a substantial evidence base to support the use of local vaginal oestrogen therapy in postmenopausal women with OAB either in isolation or alternatively as an adjunctive therapy when used with antimuscarinic medication. Available evidence supports an improvement in lower urinary tract symptoms as well as a significant improvement in health-related quality of life (HRQoL).

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Urogynaecology, Kings College Hospital, Denmark Hill, Camberwell, London, SE5 9RS, UK

    Dudley Robinson & Linda Cardozo

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  1. Dudley Robinson
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  2. Linda Cardozo
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Correspondence to Dudley Robinson.

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Conflict of Interest

Dudley Robinson has received fees for Consultancy work and Speaking from Astellas, Allergan, Ixaltis, Contura and Ferring. He has performed Research with Astellas, Ixaltis and Allergan. Linda Cardozo has received fees for Consultancy work and Speaking from Atlantic Therapeutics, Boston and Allergan.

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Robinson, D., Cardozo, L. The Role of Local Hormone Replacement in Overactive Bladder. Curr Bladder Dysfunct Rep 14, 342–349 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11884-019-00558-z

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