The menopause can cause a wide range of symptoms, including hot flushes and difficulty sleeping.
But what are some of the lesser-known symptoms of the menopause?
These are 11 symptoms of the menopause that you might not know about, explained by Stephanie Taylor, women’s health expert and managing director of pelvic healthcare company Kegel8.
Stephanie notes that if you’re suffering with any of the symptoms above, there are steps you can take to feel better.
She said changing your diet, reducing your alcohol consumption, taking vitamins and supplements, doing the right kind of exercises and seeking medical treatment can all help with symptoms.
“Don’t suffer in silence. If you’re worried about how the menopause could be impacting your health and wellbeing, consult your GP or a trained health professional as soon as possible,” she added.
These are 11 symptoms of the menopause that you might not know about, explained by Stephanie Taylor, women’s health expert and managing director of pelvic healthcare company Kegel8.
5. Dryness down below
Vaginal atrophy, otherwise known as vaginal dryness, is very common during the menopause. It is caused by a drop of oestrogen which halts the production of mucus in the vagina. This dryness can not only put you at a higher risk of developing a urinary tract infection, but it can also make sexual intercourse unpleasant and sometimes painful.
6. Toothache
Your mouth can become drier during the menopause. When your mouth isn’t lubricated, bacteria grows at a faster rate which can lead to tooth decay and gum disease.
7. Electric shock sensation
Many women have documented feeling short sharp electric shocks on their skin. Although this isn’t yet completely understood, it’s thought it could be down to hormonal imbalances affecting how the brain interprets and sends messages to and from the nervous system.
8. Allergies
Even if you haven’t had an allergy to something before, hormonal imbalances can change all that. From eczema and hay fever, to food allergies, developing mid-life allergic reactions isn’t uncommon.