An AH! YES® Guide to Understanding and
Navigating Menopause


An AH! YES® Guide to Understanding and
Navigating Menopause

The Menopause Talk

Menopause & mental health

Finding relief

Resources

The Menopause Talk

Menopause & mental health

Finding relief

Resources

What is Menopause?

Menopause is a significant life event that every woman will go through at some point in her life. It can be a challenging time for some, as women may experience a variety of emotions and physical symptoms during this transition. Generally, menopause is divided into three stages, but keep in mind that each person's experience will be unique. Additionally, menopause can also be triggered by certain surgeries or cancer treatments, which might lead to more sudden and severe symptoms [1]. 

 

On average, menopausal symptoms can last for about seven years. However, 1 in 3 women may experience symptoms for a longer duration [2]. The severity of these symptoms can differ significantly from woman to woman. 

When does Menopause start?

 

Perimenopause 

 

Perimenopause is the natural transition period leading up to menopause. It typically kicks off in your 40s, but it's possible to experience it as early as your 30s. During this time, your body starts producing less estrogen, which can lead to changes in your menstrual cycle. You might notice that your periods become longer or shorter, and you might also start experiencing symptoms similar to those of menopause, such as hot flashes, sleep issues, and vaginal dryness [3]. 

 

 

Menopause 

 

Menopause is officially confirmed when your menstrual periods cease. This occurs because your ovaries stop releasing eggs and significantly reduce estrogen production. In addition to the depletion of estrogen, the hormones progesterone and testosterone also decline, and this decline is responsible for some menopause symptoms. A doctor diagnoses menopause after you've gone without a period for a continuous 12-month period. The average age for women to reach menopause is around 51 [4]. 

 

 

Postmenopause 

 

The phase of life after menopause is called postmenopause. On average, women experience menopause symptoms for about seven years [4], but the severity of these symptoms can vary widely. It's essential to understand and manage these changes during this stage of life. 

 

[1] NHS Inform  [2] British Menopause Society  [3] Mayo Clinic  [4] NHS Inform (North American Menopause Society) 

Common Symptoms of Menopause

  • Vaginal dryness  
  • Hot flashes  
  • Irregular periods or periods that are heavier or lighter than usual  
  • Night sweats and/or cold flashes  
  • Urinary urgency or bladder weakness  
  • Difficulty sleeping (insomnia)  

More below..

Symptoms

  •  
  • Emotional changes (irritability, mood swings, anxiety, panic disorders, brain fog or mild depression)  
  • Dry skin, dry eyes or dry mouth  
  • Breast tenderness  
  • Worsening of premenstrual syndrome (PMS)  
  • Thinning hair  
  • Acne and skin changes  
  • Bloating  
  • Decreased fertility  
  • Dizziness  
  • Fatigue  
  • Headaches and migraines  
  • Joint pain  
  • Muscle tension  
  • UTI's  
  • Heart palpitations  
  • Changes in taste and smell  
  • Weight gain  
  • Changes in sex drive  
  • Body odor  
  • Breathing difficulties  
  • Burning mouth syndrome  
  • Changes in breast size and/or sagging breasts and/or sore breasts  
  • Changes in skin texture  
  • Dental problems  
  • Itchy crawly skin  
  • Loss of bone density  
  • Loss of concentration  
  • Nail changes  
  • Nausea and digestive problems  
  • Tingling extremities  
  • Short-term memory issues 

  

Symptoms taken from GenM 

Related blogs

Guest Blog: Managing Vaginal Dryness with Dr Louise Newson

AH!YES®: Proud partners of GenM

Natural remedies for menopause: how to identify menopause-friendly products   

Menopause and Mental Health

Menopause and Mental Health

Anxiety during Perimenopause and menopause

 

  •  Experiencing anxiety that begins during perimenopause is unfortunately common. As much as 51% of women aged 40-55 experience anxiety-related symptoms. If you often feel restless, on edge, wired, or unable to relax, anxiety may be the culprit. Physical symptoms and hormonal changes are most likely to blame, but remember, anxiety during menopause is not only common but highly treatable.   

     

    Speak to your health care professional about what treatment options are available to you. 

 

Brain fog during Perimenopause and menopause

 

  • Forgetting or misplacing things, writing endless to-do lists, or finding it difficult to retain information? Studies show that brain fog and poor concentration during perimenopause and menopause affect between 40-50% of women [7]. During menopause, estrogen levels decline, and this hormone plays a vital role in memory and cognitive function.    

    Brain health can be supported through diet and exercise as well as supplementing with vitamins such as vitamins B, D, folic acid and omega 3. [4

     

 

Confidence and self-esteem decline During perimenopause and menopause

 

  • The physical and emotional effects of menopause, as well as changes in work and personal life, can all impact self-esteem and confidence. Not only is your body going through some major hormonal changes, but you may experience a knock-on effect in your personal and professional life. 45% of women say menopause has negatively impacted them at work.   

 

Alongside the emotional impact of menopause and general aging, it’s not surprising that we may notice our self-confidence slipping. Finding the proper support is critical to navigating drops in self-esteem during menopause. 

 

GenM provides excellent resources on navigating menopause in the workplace. 

 

Depression during menopause

 

  • According to some sources [1], instances of depression double during menopause. Depression is not just a feeling of sadness. You may feel tired, sensitive, teary, and even hopeless at times. Depression can affect all areas of life, from appetite to libido and everything in between. If you’re experiencing depression, it’s time to see your doctor.    

    Your health care professional may suggest talking therapies, online self-help, group support, or medications such as anti-depressants or Hormone Therapy.  

 

Irritability and mood swings during menopause

 

  •  Around 70% of women report that irritability is their main emotional menopausal symptom. Lower levels of estrogen have links to irritability, fatigue, and stress. Declining estrogen levels are to blame, and you might find it harder to control your moods.  

 

References:  National Library of Medicine | Medical News Today | National Institute of Medicine | NHS | NHS Inform | Everyday Health 

 

Diagnosing and Treating Menopause

Menopause is diagnosed when you haven't had a period for a full 12 months straight. 

If you're going through menopause and experiencing symptoms, it's essential to talk to your doctor. If you're between the ages of 40 and 45, your healthcare provider may conduct a blood test to check your hormone levels. 

 

For those under 40 with menopause-like symptoms, a blood test might be offered to help identify potential premature menopause. Early detection can be crucial for effective treatment. 

 

Hormone therapy

Hormone therapy

 

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) also known as Hormone Therapy or Estrogen Replacement Therapy is a common medicinal treatment for vaginal dryness and other symptoms during menopause [1]. HRT replaces hormones that are low which includes the use of replacement estrogen.  

 

Hormone therapies are used most often to treat hot flashes and genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM), which includes vaginal dryness, after menopause. For hot flashes, hormones are given in pills, patches, sprays, gels, or a vaginal ring that deliver hormones throughout the body—known as “systemic” therapy. For genitourinary symptoms, hormones are given in creams, pills, or rings that are inserted into the vagina [2].  

 

For women who still have their uterus, Estrogen/Progesterone/Progestin Hormone Therapy (also called Combination Therapy) may be available. This therapy combines doses of estrogen and progestin, the synthetic form of progesterone [1].  

 

Always talk to your OB/GYN specialist, doctor or healthcare provider to find out what treatment options are available to you.  

 

[1] WEBMD 

[2] North American Menopause Society  

 

AH!YES® tips for feeling better during menopause

Maintain a balanced and nutritious diet

 

During menopause, it's advised to have a diet that's rich in calcium and vitamin D to prevent bone loss [1]. Avoid smoking and excessive alcohol consumption to safeguard your health [2]. Watch your body weight, as carrying excess fat can increase the risk of cardiovascular and metabolic issues [3]. It's also worth noting that increased body weight might impact menopause symptoms like hot flashes [4]. 

Find the right supplements for your body

 

You'll find many and various menopause supplements are available. Do your research and choose supplements with pure and natural ingredients. Vitamin B6 and B12 can be particularly beneficial during this time. Magnesium can help relax muscles and promote better sleep. Omega 3 fatty acids are believed to ease psychological symptoms, reduce joint pain, and support heart and bone health [5]. 

Stay hydrated and exercise regularly

 

Proper hydration is essential for various bodily functions, especially as hot flashes and night sweats may increase sweating. Regular exercise not only improves mood but also reduces the risk of certain diseases while strengthening joints and muscles. 

Prioritize sleep and rest

 

Menopausal women often experience sleep disturbances, with estrogen playing a role in the sleep-wake cycle. The drop in estrogen levels during menopause can disrupt sleep quality. Prioritizing sleep and rest can help improve overall well-being [6] [7]. 

Use Vaginal moisturizers for dryness

 

Menopause can lead to vaginal dryness due to the decline in estrogen levels, causing discomfort and pain. The first line treatment for GSM is vaginal moisturizers and lubricants [8]. Using a vaginal moisturizer daily and good lubrication during sex can provide natural relief from these symptoms. 

Take care of your mental health

 

Menopause can bring emotional and psychological symptoms. Seek appropriate support and treatment to maintain and improve your mental health and overall well-being. 

References: [1] NHS [2], NHS [3], National Library of Medicine [4], National Library of Medicine  [5] , Women’s Health Network [6] ,

Stat taken from: Medical News Today , [7] The Sleep Foundation [8] NAMS Position Statement  

Vaginal dryness and menopause

 

Vaginal dryness is a common symptom experienced by many women during menopause. It can occur suddenly at any stage of this transition. Studies indicate that up to 90% of postmenopausal women may be affected by vaginal or vulval dryness [1]. 

 

The root cause of this dryness lies in the hormonal changes that naturally happen during menopause. These changes can lead to discomfort and pain, especially during sexual intercourse. While there are several products available on the market, some contain ingredients such as glycerin, glycols and even perfume which can potentially be irritating to your delicate tissues. 

 

Normally, the mucous membranes in the vagina produce a natural lubricant that keeps the area moist, elastic, and strong. Estrogen in the body plays a crucial role in encouraging the production of this lubricant. The natural lubricant has an acidic nature, providing protection against bacterial and fungal infections. As estrogen levels decline during menopause, the vaginal tissues produce less of this lubricant, leading to dryness and a loss of elasticity and strength in the tissues. Thinning of the vaginal tissues can make them more vulnerable and sensitive, resulting in dryness, itching, irritation, and pain. 

 

Stat taken from National Library of Medicine 

 

Ease vaginal dryness with AH!YES®

Soothe Vaginal Dryness at any stage of life

 

If you're experiencing dryness and discomfort during menopause, there are effective ways to ease these symptoms. AH! YES® offers a range of products designed specifically to alleviate vaginal dryness, providing gentle relief and improved comfort without compromising intimate health. 

 


Vaginal moistuizer

AH! YES® VM vaginal moisturizer is specially formulated to replenish vaginal moisture levels and alleviate dryness. It releases moisture slowly, keeping the vagina hydrated for up to three days. This product can be applied internally using applicators or externally to the vulva. 


Water- based lubricant

 

During sexual intercourse, AH! YES® WB water-based lubricant can be used to hydrate the delicate vaginal tissue, providing rapid relief from mild to moderate dryness and discomfort. 

 


Plant oil-based lubricant

For those seeking a natural alternative to synthetic chemical lubricants, AH! YES® OB plant oil-based lubricant is an excellent option. It is long-lasting, richly nourishing, and designed to protect and soothe dry intimate tissues. 

 

 All AH! YES® products are certified organic and formulated without glycerin, parabens, hormones, synthetic chemicals, silicone, propylene glycol, or any known skin or mucosal irritants. These products use nature-derived ingredients and contain no genetically modified components. 

 

With AH! YES® products, you can manage vaginal dryness while ensuring you're using organic and skin-friendly solutions for your intimate health. 

 

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