Menopause
Menopause is a natural stage in every woman’s life and the experience is as individual as you are. However, most women will notice a change in their intimate area and intimate health over time, experiencing symptoms such as vaginal dryness and irregular periods. These changes don’t mean that you can’t continue to enjoy a healthy and vibrant lifestyle or sex life, as there are many treatment options available to address these symptoms.
Menopause occurs when the female sex hormone estrogen decreases. Before you reach menopause, estrogen regulates your ovulation and menstruation. When your levels of estrogen naturally decrease, your menstrual cycles end and you stop ovulating and stop having regular periods. When you reach menopause, it’s unlikely you will be able to get pregnant.
During menopause, periods become less frequent and eventually stop. If you are under 50 years old, you are diagnosed as going through menopause once you haven’t had a period for two years, but if you are over 50, the diagnosis occurs once you haven’t had a period for only one year.
What Are the Symptoms of Menopause?
How Can I Treat the Symptoms of Menopause?
Depending on the severity of your symptoms, there are many different treatments and remedies you can try to help find relief. These range from simple changes to your diet and lifestyle, to hormone replacement therapy (HRT) as prescribed by your doctor.
Some symptoms can be treated very specifically. For example, if you’re suffering from vaginal dryness, you can use an intimate moisturiser or lubricant to soothe and moisturise, even during sex. You might find that making changes to your lifestyle, such as eating a more balanced diet and exercising regularly, can also be helpful in managing your symptoms.
As menopause is different for everyone, it can sometimes be difficult to manage. If you’re struggling, your doctor will understand and will be able to talk you through different options available to you.
Learn More about Women's Intimate Health
What Is a Vaginal Yeast Infection?
Learn what a vaginal yeast infection is and what common symptoms can help identify it. You can also find out how you can treat a yeast infection and how you can help prevent it from recurring.
What Is Bacterial Vaginosis (BV)?
Learn what BV is and what bacterial vaginosis symptoms are. You can find out who is more prone to getting this infection and what the differences between a vaginal yeast infection and BV are.
What Is Menopause?
Learn about menopause, including symptoms and how to treat them.
What Is the Menstrual Cycle?
Learn more about your menstrual cycle, including your periods.
What Is Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)?
Learn what PMS is, how to treat and prevent PMS, and when you should see a doctor about your PMS symptoms.
What Is Cystitis?
Learn about the causes and symptoms of cystitis, plus how to prevent it.
What Is Vaginal Dryness?
Learn what vaginal dryness is, including symptoms and prevention.
How to Properly Clean Your Intimate Area
Learn about hygiene in your intimate area.