The lower urinary tract in women--effect of aging and menopause on continence.

This review paper briefly describes the physiology of the lower urinary tract in women, with emphasis on the bladder-filling phase and the factors that effect urinary continence and incontinence. Attention is placed on the effects of aging and menopause. While most factors influencing the bladder-filling phase are thought to be affected by aging and menopause, the exact correlation and mechanism are not yet known. Clinical data and recent meta-analysis seem to support the theory that estrogen supplementation may have a role in managing urinary incontinence in post-menopausal women. Without due understanding of the aging process effect on the function of the lower urinary tract, therapeutic trials will remain poorly focused.