Effect of androgens and estrogens on bladder/lower urinary tract function

Aging is inextricably linked to benign urinary voiding dysfunction, including stress incontinence, overactive bladder, and prostate-related disease. Aging-related changes in sex hormone concentrations are clear contributors to urinary disease processes. In men, testosterone plasma concentrations decrease while estradiol concentrations increase with age. In women, estradiol concentrations decrease while testosterone concentrations increase with age. Here, we outline known impacts of testosterone and estradiol on female and male bladder anatomy, physiology, and benign bladder-related disease. We also summarize emerging evidence that environmental chemical exposures modulate sex hormones to influence bladder structure and function.