Menopause

Menopause Awareness Month

The material provided is for informational purposes only. It is not intended to replace the diagnosis or treatment by a qualified healthcare professional. You should always seek medical advice before consuming any new medicines or supplements. Any products referenced on this website are not intended to treat, cure, or prevent any disease such as overactive bladder, urinary tract infections, or vaginal infections.   

Every October, we take time to raise awareness about menopause and provide support for women navigating this important life stage. Menopause is a natural part of aging, but it’s often misunderstood and under-discussed. Many women feel lost or alone during this transition, but you don’t have to suffer in silence. Understanding what menopause is and knowing what to expect can empower you to manage this stage of life with confidence. 

What is Menopause?


Menopause marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years, brought on by changes in hormone levels. While it typically affects women between the ages of 45 and 55, it can occur earlier or later for some. 

Common Symptoms


Menopause can bring a variety of symptoms, including: 

  • Hot Flashes & Night Sweats: Waking up drenched in sweat and needing to change clothes or open windows in the middle of the night? You’re not alone. About 80% of women in menopause experience hot flashes too.1 
  • Mood Swings: Mood swings are very common and can be hard to manage without support. They can be particularly difficult if you have a history of dealing with depression. The many physical changes during menopause can make these emotional ups and downs even more intense.   
  • Vaginal dryness & Decreased Libido: The drop in estrogen can reduce sexual desire and cause vaginal dryness, making intimacy uncomfortable. Low estrogen can thin vaginal tissues, causing irritation and potentially causing sex to be painful, which further impacts libido.  
  • Vaginal Odor & Discomfort: Hormonal changes can also disrupt the natural vaginal environment, leading to an increase in unwanted odor, dryness, and discomfort. 
  • Brain Fog and Memory Issues: Hormonal changes, stress and fatigue can all contribute to brain fog and memory issues, making it difficult to concentrate or recall information. Many women report feeling mentally sluggish, which can be frustrating when you’re trying to stay focused on daily tasks and responsibilities.  
  • Recurring UTIs: Decreasing estrogen levels can alter the balance of bacteria in the urinary and genital tracts, which normally help protect against infections. Along with weakened bladder muscles, this can lead to increased urinary incontinence and higher risks of UTIs.²   

 

Women experiencing menopause may also see symptoms like increased anxiety, changes in skin (dryness or adult acne), hair thinning, weight gain, increased facial hair, joint aches, headaches, low self-confidence, and palpitations. Each woman’s journey through menopause is unique, but the similarities remind us that we’re not alone. On the bright side, menopause also means saying goodbye to periods and concerns about unwanted pregnancies!  

 

Tips to Navigate Menopause

There are many ways to manage menopause symptoms and improve your quality of life during this time: 

  • Relieve Stress: Stress has a way of amplifying menopause symptoms, from hot flashes to mood swings. Prioritizing stress management is key. Consider incorporating relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga into your daily routine. These practices not only calm your mind but also have physical benefits, such as reducing cortisol levels, which can help regulate your body’s response to stress. (Check out our blog on Stress Awareness for more tips!) 
  • Healthy Diet: What you eat can have a profound impact on how you feel during menopause. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats can help stabilize blood sugar, reduce inflammation, and manage weight. Foods rich in calcium and vitamin D are especially important for maintaining bone health, as menopause can increase the risk of osteoporosis. Try to limit processed and spicy foods, caffeine, and alcohol, as they can trigger hot flashes and disrupt sleep. 
  • Exercise: Regular exercise can be a game-changer during menopause. Engaging in low-impact activities like walking, swimming, or yoga can help with weight management, reduce the frequency of hot flashes, and improve sleep. Physical activity also boosts the production of endorphins, the body’s “feel-good” hormones, which can alleviate mood swings and anxiety. Strength training is particularly helpful for maintaining muscle mass and bone density as you age. 
  • Try Estroven® Products: The Estroven® brand offers a variety of products that are specially formulated to support women through the menopause transition. Whether you're looking to address hot flashes, manage mood swings, or improve occasional sleeplessness, our products are designed to work naturally with your body to relieve symptoms.*  For example, Estroven® Complete Multi-Symptom Menopause Relief  supports fasterℓ menopause relief*, while Estroven® Sleep Cool can help you get a restful night’s sleep by reducing or eliminating night sweats*.  
  • Therapy: Emotional health is just as important as physical well-being during menopause. If mood swings or feelings of depression are overwhelming, it might be helpful to speak to a mental health professional. Therapy can provide coping strategies for managing the emotional ups and downs that come with menopause. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) has been shown to help reduce anxiety and improve mood stability. 
  • Lubricants & Suppositories for Vaginal Dryness: Vaginal dryness is a common yet often under-discussed symptom of menopause. There are over-the-counter lubricants, moisturizers, and vaginal suppositories that can help alleviate dryness and irritation. In more severe cases, your doctor may recommend hormone therapy or non-hormonal treatments to help restore moisture and comfort.   
  • Support Networks: Going through menopause can sometimes feel isolating, but it doesn’t have to be. Seek out support from family, friends, or even online communities of women who are experiencing similar challenges. Sharing experiences, advice, and encouragement with others can make this transition feel less overwhelming. You are not alone in this journey, and connecting with others can be incredibly empowering. 
  • Memory Support Tips: The brain fog from menopause can be extremely frustrating, but there are ways to help sharpen your mind. Try brain-challenging activities like Sudoku or crossword puzzles to keep your mind active. You might also consider trying brain health supplements to support cognitive function. Check out Estroven® Complete + Ashwagandha Menopause Relief to help support mental clarity and concentration during menopause. * 

Menopause doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right information and support, you can embrace this stage of life and feel empowered to thrive. 

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