Is it normal for postmenopausal women to have pelvic fluid accumulation during physical examination?

Whether pelvic fluid accumulation is normal in postmenopausal women during physical examination should be judged based on the amount of fluid accumulation and accompanying symptoms. A small amount of fluid accumulation may be a physiological phenomenon, but when there is a large amount of fluid accumulation or accompanied by symptoms such as abdominal pain, attention should be paid to pathological factors. The pelvic cavity is the lowest position in the female abdominal cavity, and a small amount of fluid may be naturally absorbed after secretion from the peritoneum, which is a normal physiological phenomenon. The decline in ovarian function and hormone levels after menopause may lead to a slowdown in pelvic tissue fluid metabolism, resulting in temporary fluid accumulation. In such cases, the depth of fluid accumulation usually does not exceed 3 centimeters, and ultrasound examination shows good sound transmission without separation or solid components. Patients often have no conscious symptoms, which were accidentally discovered during physical examination and do not require special treatment. It is recommended to have a follow-up ultrasound examination 3-6 months to observe changes. Pathological fluid accumulation is common in pelvic inflammatory diseases, tumors, or cardiovascular diseases. Atrophy of endometrial lesions in postmenopausal women may lead to hemorrhagic fluid accumulation, while hydrosalpinx or ruptured ovarian cysts can also cause fluid accumulation. Malignant tumors such as ovarian cancer and peritoneal cancer often cause progressive increase in fluid accumulation, and ultrasound shows septa or papillary protrusions. Leakage caused by cardiovascular dysfunction or hypoalbuminemia is often accompanied by systemic edema. In such cases, the amount of fluid accumulation usually exceeds 5 centimeters and may be accompanied by lower abdominal distension, abnormal urination, or emaciation and weakness. Further examination through tumor markers, CT, or laparoscopy is required.

It is recommended that postmenopausal women undergo gynecological ultrasound and tumor marker screening annually. If abnormal vaginal bleeding, persistent abdominal pain, or a significant increase in fluid accumulation occurs in the short term, they should seek medical attention promptly. Avoid prolonged sitting in daily life to promote pelvic blood circulation, and supplement high-quality protein in moderation to maintain plasma osmotic pressure. After the diagnosis of pathological fluid accumulation, targeted treatment is needed for the primary disease. For infectious fluid accumulation, ceftriaxone sodium injection combined with metronidazole and sodium chloride injection can be used for anti-inflammatory treatment. For tumor fluid accumulation, paclitaxel injection chemotherapy or surgical intervention may be required.