Urinary Tract Infections
During menopause, some women may experience more urinary tract infections. Lower estrogen levels and changes in the urinary tract can make you more susceptible to infections. If you feel a constant urge to urinate, urinate more often, or have a burning sensation when urinating, see your doctor. Your doctor will probably ask you to do a urine test and prescribe antibiotics.
Physical Changes
You may also notice that your hair and skin are getting drier and thinner. Some women gain weight during menopause. Especially around the midsection, gaining more fat around your waist and more fat and less muscle in general. It can also be that moving becomes more difficult and that your joints feel stiff or painful. It is important to remain active. You may have to work harder to maintain your strength and stay in shape.
Vaginal Dryness
Vaginal dryness is a common symptom experienced by many women during menopause. It occurs due to a decrease in estrogen levels, which can cause thinning and drying of the vaginal tissues. Vaginal dryness can lead to discomfort during sexual intercourse, as well as irritation and itching in the vaginal area. It is important for women experiencing vaginal dryness during menopause to speak with their healthcare provider, as there are treatments available that can help manage this symptom and improve overall quality of life.
I’m in Menopause and Now?
In addition, some women may also experience symptoms such as pain, headaches, and palpitations. Since menopause symptoms can be caused by changing hormone levels, it is difficult to predicate how often women suffer from hot flashes and other symptoms and how severe they will be. Consult your doctor if these symptoms interfere with your daily life. The severity of the symptoms varies widely worldwide and depends on race and ethnicity.
If the symptoms are serious and affect your quality of life, treatment may be necessary. Hormone therapy can be an effective treatment in women under 60 years of age, or when started within 10 years of the onset of menopause. For more information about (peri)menopause, menopause symptoms, and treatment options, start your search here:
