Menopause is real and can result in some disturbing symptoms. So if you have hit your fifties and experiencing some symptoms, we have something for you. We have listed 5 symptoms that anyone should never ignore during menopause.
- Oral changes
Lack of estrogen may change your oral environment, affecting your tongue and gum.
The absence of the female hormone can result in a chronically dry mouth and reduced saliva. The lack of sufficient saliva prevents you from swallowing frequently, thus allowing more bacteria in your mouth.
Bacterial infection can result in other unwanted effects. You may notice gum diseases that weren’t there previously. You may become more prone to bleeding and sensitivity.
As reported by Verve Dental, menopause can have a substantial impact on gum health. Women going through menopause often experience symptoms like gum swelling, pain, inflammation, and bleeding. The decrease in the body’s estrogen levels during this period can lead to gingivitis. Persistent gum issues can gradually erode the bones supporting the teeth and may cause discomfort while eating and bad breath.
Similar to gum infection, you may also experience a burning tongue. This presents itself as a metallic taste, dryness, and soreness.
The feeling is activated by cells around taste buds misrepresenting sensation. It usually occurs at the roof of the mouth or lips but could also affect the entire mouth.
You shouldn’t ignore these oral conditions, although they are due to the lack of estrogen to stabilize your taste buds and regulate saliva secretion. These oral infections affect about a fifth of women during menopause.
- Vaginal irritation
Vaginal tissues are usually acidic, but after menopause, they turn alkaline. The chalky environment is more bacteria friendly resulting in urinary tract infections.
As per the study conducted by Midday Health, vaginal irritation during menopause encompasses vulvovaginal and urinary symptoms, which may include burning, dryness, itching, and vaginal soreness. You may encounter one or a combination of these symptoms during this stage. These discomforts can be challenging, but identifying and addressing them can lead to improved comfort and well-being during menopause
Inadequate estrogen is responsible for this shift. But this atmosphere is great for UTIs, which can cause great discomfort and itching.
One of the most pressing UTIs is vulvovaginitis. This is an inflammation of the vulva and vagina.
It is accompanied by a thick, mucus-like discharge which can be yellow and green. It may also present an unpleasant smell.
The feeling can be irritating, so how do you treat it? You can seek treatment based on the cause of the infection. These could be due to bacterial or fungal infections.
Depending on its severity, you can use a mild solution of baking powder to ease the itchiness. Use a soft cloth to pat the area dry after compression.
Topical vitamin E can also ease the pain. But you need to see your gynecologist for proper treatment.
- Weight gain
Menopause results in a decreased level of estrogen. When this hormone reduces, it abdicates one of its functions which is to retain fat in the hips.
Hence, you may notice that fat starts accumulating in the abdomen. Besides, your body gains more fat quickly while also losing lean tissue mass.
As reported in the article published by, National Institute of Health, the hormonal changes during menopause can increase the likelihood of weight gain around the abdomen rather than the hips and thighs. Other contributing factors include the natural process of aging, lifestyle choices, and genetic influences. Understanding these factors can help women better manage their weight and overall health during menopause.
Menopause increases instances of an eating disorder. Thus you may crave junk food. This only makes the bad situation worse.
Still, these habits aren’t helpful. Studies indicate that rapid mid-waist weight gains could accelerate health risks.
You are more prone to type 2 diabetes and heart disease, even when your overall weight remains the same. Further, this condition elevates your blood pressure and blood sugar levels.
These findings have been documented in a study published in the September 2020 edition of the journal Menopause.
You shouldn’t ignore these signs, even if they appear insignificant. Take steps to address them through exercising and eating nutritious diets.
- Vaginal bleeding after menopause
After menopause, your vaginal lining can thin. It becomes less elastic and is unable to stretch extensively as before this phase.
During sex, you may feel sharp pain upon penetration. And when thrusting continues, the agony starts radiating all around the vagina.
The longer you take between intercourses, the greater the discomfort. This feeling can subdue as you are accustomed to regular sex.
Still, you shouldn’t allow pain to disrupt your sexual desire. Below are some solutions to this problem.
Over-the-counter moisturizers, lubricants, and even sprays can complement your inadequate natural lubrication. They will help if you use them as instructed.
You may sometimes opt for ways to increase the natural lubrication. In this situation, you can see your gynecologist for advice.
Your health expert may dispense vaginal estrogen therapy. You can consider what form is best for you since they come in pills, creams, and rings. But you need to be aware of their likely side effects.
- Incontinence
Incontinence refers to the absence of urinary control. It may start as a few drops when you cough, sneeze or exercise.
But if you ignore it, it could grow into an uncontrollable and urgent need to urinate anytime. In the worst-case scenario, urine may ooze even when you are seated or sleeping.
What causes this absurd condition? Well, menopause. Due to reduced estrogen, your urethra cavity thins.
The urethra is the tube that excretes urine from your body. As it slackens, so does its ability to hold urine in place.
How do you help overcome this condition? Kegel’s exercise is very effective in firming your pelvic floor muscles. In addition, you may tweak your lifestyle.
Reducing alcohol consumption and limiting caffeine intake may also help. These fluids increase water retention, forcing your urethra to work extra hard.
But with a less elastic pelvis floor, more water in the urethra means more trips to the toilet.
To finish up, five symptoms were elaborated that a person should never ignore during their menopause. We think that menopause education is necessary, and learning about signs and menopause can help ladies become prepared for menopause when the time comes.
Is It Better To Go Through Menopause Naturally?
Menopause is a natural and inevitable stage in a woman’s life, marking the end of her reproductive years. It is a significant milestone that often brings about various physical and emotional changes. While some women may experience a smooth transition, others may face a more challenging journey. With the advancement of modern medicine, women now have the option to go through menopause artificially, through hormone replacement therapy (HRT). This raises the question – is it better to go through menopause naturally or artificially? In this paper, we will explore the pros and cons of both options to determine which might be the better choice.
Going through menopause naturally means allowing the body to go through the natural process without any medical intervention. This process is gradual and can take several years to complete. During this time, the body experiences a decline in the production of estrogen and progesterone, leading to the end of menstruation. This process is a natural part of a woman’s life and serves as a reminder of her aging body.
One of the significant benefits of going through menopause naturally is that it is a more holistic approach. The body is allowed to adjust to the changes at its own pace, reducing the risk of side effects. Natural menopause also allows the body to maintain its hormonal balance, which is essential for overall well-being. As a result, women who go through menopause naturally may experience fewer symptoms such as hot flashes, mood swings, and insomnia.
Another advantage of natural menopause is that it is a cost-effective option. Unlike HRT, which involves the use of medication, going through menopause naturally does not require any additional expenses. This can be beneficial for women who may not have access to or cannot afford HRT. Moreover, natural menopause can also serve as a time for self-reflection and personal growth, as women come to terms with their aging bodies and embrace the next phase of their lives.
On the other hand, going through menopause naturally may also have its drawbacks. For some women, the symptoms of menopause can be severe and significantly impact their daily lives. These symptoms can range from mild irritations to more severe conditions such as osteoporosis and heart disease. Additionally, the duration of natural menopause can vary from woman to woman, and some may experience symptoms for an extended period, affecting their quality of life.
HRT, on the other hand, involves the use of medication to replace the declining hormones in the body. This method aims to mimic the natural hormonal balance and reduce the severity of menopausal symptoms. HRT can be administered in various forms, such as pills, patches, gels, and creams, depending on the individual’s needs.
One of the significant advantages of HRT is that it can effectively alleviate menopausal symptoms. Studies have shown that HRT is highly effective in reducing hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness. It can also help reduce the risk of osteoporosis, which is a common concern for women going through menopause. Moreover, HRT can also improve mood and cognitive function, which can significantly benefit women who experience mood swings and memory lapses during menopause.
However, HRT also has its disadvantages. One of the most significant concerns is the potential side effects. Some women may experience side effects such as breast tenderness, bloating, and nausea. There is also a risk of developing more severe conditions such as blood clots, stroke, and breast cancer, although the evidence for this is inconclusive. Additionally, HRT can be expensive, and the cost can add up over time, especially for those who need long-term treatment.
In conclusion, both natural and artificial menopause have their pros and cons. While going through menopause naturally may be a more holistic approach, it may not be suitable for all women, especially those with severe symptoms. HRT, on the other hand, can effectively alleviate symptoms, but it comes with potential side effects and a higher cost. Ultimately, the decision of whether to go through menopause naturally or artificially should be based on individual needs and preferences. It is essential to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best course of action.
