3 Common Symptoms of Menopause

Hot flashes, irregular periods and vaginal dryness are common during menopause. What can be done to make life easier?

Menopause and perimenopause often come with disruptive symptoms due to fluctuating hormones. Laila Al-Marayati, MD, an obstetrician/gynecologist with Keck Medicine of USC, breaks down three common physical symptoms.

1. Hot flashes

A hot flash is a sudden feeling of intense heat that rushes to the upper body and face. It may last a couple of seconds to minutes and may occur daily or a few times a month. Hot flashes at night can cause night sweats, which can impact sleep.

For moderate hot flashes, increasing estrogen levels in the body can help. One way to do so is by raising your intake of phytoestrogens. “Phytoestrogens exist in plants such as soy, yams and papaya,” Dr. Al-Marayati explains. “Add these foods to your diet or take phytoestrogen supplements.”

Other strategies include lowering the temperature in your home, taking a cool shower or slipping a cold pack into your pillowcase.

Dr. Al-Marayati also cautions that stress or anxiety can provoke hot flashes. While you can’t predict when a hot flash will happen, you can try to plan for them. For instance, you can dress in layers of clothing you can remove or carry a personal fan (a simple cloth or paper fan will do).

2. Irregular periods

When estrogen levels fluctuate during menopause, it can impact your periods — such as causing shorter or longer cycles, or a lighter or heavier flow. You may also skip periods altogether.

It’s important to discuss irregular bleeding with your gynecologist to rule out an underlying issue. “The main thing is understanding which changes in your periods are normal and which are not normal and need attention,” Dr. Al-Marayati says.

Between the age of 45 and 55, it’s normal to experience longer gaps between period cycles as well as lighter periods, hot flashes and sweats.

“However, longer periods of heavy bleeding could indicate an actual problem with your uterus that needs to be addressed,” Dr. Al-Marayati cautions. In some cases, she adds, thyroid problems can also cause menstrual irregularity.

Younger adults experiencing skipped periods or prolonged heavy periods should also see a doctor.

3. Vaginal dryness

Vaginal dryness happens during menopause as vaginal tissue becomes thinner, drier and less flexible. This dryness can cause discomfort during daily activities or pain during sex and increase your risk of vaginal and urinary tract infections.

Over-the-counter lubricants, especially those containing hyaluronic acid, can be helpful, especially during intercourse, Dr. Al-Marayati says. Topical estrogen, such as in vaginal creams, may also work. In addition, more frequent intercourse or vaginal penetration can improve blood supply to the vagina, offsetting symptoms of vaginal dryness, she adds. Finally, pelvic floor physical therapy can also be beneficial.

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