Role of Vitamin D in urogenital health of geriatric participants

INTRODUCTION: Role of Vitamin D is very well known for the functioning of many body organs. However, its role in the postmenopausal women in relation to various genitourinary disorders has been recognized recently. The main objective of this study was to evaluate role of Vitamin D in vaginal health, prolapse, bladder and bowel function, and bacterial vaginosis (BV). MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a randomized controlled study in which 200 geriatric female patients of 65–78 years of age divided into two groups comprising study and control group with 100 participants in each. Detailed obstetrical, gynecological, and clinical history was elicited. Detailed examination regarding the prolapse, urinary and bowel functions, and bacterial infections was done followed by follow-up of 3 and 6 months each. Chi-square and independent t-test used for data analysis. RESULTS: Mean modified vaginal health index (MVHI) among patients with pelvic floor diseases was statistically significant with P = 0.0472. There was a visible increasing trend in Vitamin D deficiency with increase in time since menopause (P = 0.1193). Patients with pelvic floor disease had mean Vitamin D statistically significant with P = 0.0462. With increase in Vitamin D levels, MVHI was found to be better. The association of mean Vitamin D levels among patients with urinary incontinence as compared to controls was significant with P = 0.0460. Association of mean Vitamin D levels in patients with fecal incontinence and BV as compared to controls was not statistically significant with P = 0.6304 and 0.79, respectively. Low Vitamin D levels were associated with high mean parathyroid hormone (PTH) levels statistically significant with P = 0.034. MVHI was found to increase significantly with Vitamin D supplementation at 3 and 6 months' follow-up. There was increase in Vitamin D and calcium levels and fall in serum PTH levels at 3 and 6 months. CONCLUSIONS: Vitamin D levels were associated with a decreased risk of pelvic floor disorders, improved MVHI in women in geriatric age group.