The 6 main symptoms of menopause

Menopause is a natural transition period in the life of a woman and a person with a vulva. It marks the end of fertility and is accompanied by significant hormonal changes . Still taboo, there is little clear information and suitable treatments to support women in this ordeal. Yet, by understanding the symptoms associated with menopause and learning how to manage them, we could approach it with more confidence and calm . This is why at Gapianne, we have brought together in one place natural and healthy solutions for the body addressed to menopausal people .

In this article, we will explore in detail the most common symptoms of menopause as well as practical tips and natural treatments to calm these symptoms.

The 1st symptom and also the best known: the cessation of menstruation

The cessation of menstruation is a symptom due to the decrease in estrogen levels , which eventually interrupts the menstrual cycle completely. However, stopping menstruation in postmenopausal women does not happen overnight. This is because menopause is preceded by a period called perimenopause , during which periods can become irregular and menopausal symptoms begin to appear.

During perimenopause, some women may experience more frequent and heavy periods , while others may experience longer or shorter periods . This transition period can last from a few months to several years before the periods stop completely , during menopause.

How to best manage irregular menstrual flow?

To make your period easier, we recommend opting for period panties that you can wear “just in case”. Smoon's organic cotton period panties are ideal because they are seamless, comfortable to wear day and night. This French brand also offers menstrual swimsuits and swimming trunks for beach and pool sessions. Athletes will also find what they are looking for with their superb menstrual leggings .

2nd symptom of menopause: hot flashes

Hot flashes are one of the most common symptoms of menopause. They are manifested by a sudden sensation of intense heat which rises from the torso to the face. Some women describe them as a feeling of being on fire , as if a burning inferno was going on inside their body.

These hot flashes can occur at any time of the day and are often accompanied by excessive sweating . They may also be accompanied by rapid heartbeat and a feeling of throbbing. Hot flashes can vary in intensity and frequency from woman to woman.

How to relieve hot flashes?

To relieve hot flashes, it is recommended to wear light clothes made of natural fabrics (linen, cotton...), to avoid foods that are too spicy and to maintain a cool ambient temperature in your environment.

For more concrete solutions, find the organic food supplements of Jho , composed of 6 active ingredients which will allow you to alleviate these disorders thanks in particular to sage known to regulate excessive sweating and to maca, an effective energizer to fight against the hormonal imbalance.

We also advise you to have on hand a refreshing mist to spray on the face and décolleté when the hot flashes are too intense.

3rd symptom of menopause: sleep disturbances

Sleep disturbances are another common symptom of menopause. Many women report difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep at night. These sleep problems can lead to daytime fatigue, irritability, and decreased concentration.

The hormonal fluctuations that accompany menopause can disrupt the natural sleep cycle. In addition, night sweats (caused by hot flashes) can also interfere with sleep.

How to sleep better when you are menopausal?

To have better quality sleep, it is important to relax before going to bed in order to be in the best possible condition to go to sleep.

Our customers love Mijane herbal teas, known for their simple effectiveness. That's good because the Rituel de Morphée herbal tea dedicated to improving sleep is on sale on Gapianne! Composed of organic CBD, chamomile, lemon balm, lemon verbena and hops, this organic and made in France infusion helps to relax before going to bed.

Also find this organic rooibos infusion and the 100% natural Ayurvedic infusion for a deep and restorative sleep from Cosmic Dealer.

4th symptom: mood swings and fatigue

Menopause is often associated with mood swings . Hormonal fluctuations can cause frequent mood swings, ranging from irritability to sadness. Some women may also experience anxiety, depression, or loss of motivation during this time of their life (hey, that reminds us of PMS and menstruation )

How to regulate your mood during menopause?

Recognizing and dealing with these mood swings is important to maintaining good mental and emotional health. Practicing relaxation techniques, such as meditation or yoga, can help reduce stress and promote feelings of well-being.

Add to that solutions such as the anti-stress balm I'am a survivor from Nidéco composed of several essential oils to apply to the temples, the wrists to relax thanks to the virtues of the plants, or the 5% CBD oil from Ho Karan , relaxing and non-addictive.

5th symptom: hormonal acne, a sign of menopause

Menopause can lead to skin problems such as dryness, acne, and wrinkles. Declining estrogen levels can affect collagen production, which can lead to loss of skin elasticity and the appearance of wrinkles.

Natural treatment and effective solutions for hormonal acne

To take care of your skin during menopause, it is recommended to use moisturizers adapted to your skin type . You might be interested in Oden's anti-blemish oil or face and mature skin oil , again from the super brand Oden .

Find our other treatments for mature skin .

6th symptom of menopause: vaginal dryness and low libido

As we have seen previously, the production of estrogens decreases considerably during menopause, this also leads to a decrease in vaginal lubrication and a decrease in the density of vaginal tissues. These changes can make intercourse uncomfortable or painful , which can lead to low libido . In addition, the decrease in testosterone during menopause can also contribute to low libido, since this hormone plays an important role in women's desire. Nevertheless, it is important to emphasize that the decrease in libido is not systematic and that it varies from one woman to another.

Natural solutions against intimate dryness

This subject is important and that is why we have a collection dedicated to vaginal dryness and intimate comfort . We advise you to use treatments that will re-hydrate your vulva and soothe it. For example, the vulva balm from Baûbo, the intimate gel from Miyé , or the treatment enriched with probiotics (good bacteria) from Nédéco which strengthens the vaginal flora by rebalancing it.

How to boost your libido during menopause?

Stimulate your desire when you are menopausal, it is possible! First, find our article Low libido in women to familiarize yourself with the subject.

Menopause is a good time to explore or rediscover your body and its pleasures. It's time to take stock and find out what excites you now. In order to boost your desires, you can get down to masturbation with or without a sex toy (and if you are a beginner, no worries, we have some advice on this subject). Let yourself be guided by the Guide to female masturbation, a bestseller in the field.

Accompany these new discoveries with infusions such as the Libido Boost infusion with Ginger and CBD from the Equilibre brand or that of My Lubie or test the Libido + cure from TwentyEight based on 4 plants (shatavari, maca, lady's mantle, ashwaganda).

Symptoms of menopause: the recap

Menopause is a natural transition period in a woman's life . Although it can be accompanied by disconcerting symptoms, it is important to remember that every woman experiences menopause in a unique way. By understanding common symptoms such as hot flashes, trouble sleeping, mood swings, and skin problems, you can take steps to lessen their influence on your daily life.

Do not hesitate to consult a health professional for personalized advice on managing the symptoms of menopause.

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FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

When does menopause start and how long does it last?

Menopause usually occurs between the ages of 45 and 55 (the known average is 50). The duration of menopause varies from woman to woman, but on average, it lasts about 4 to 5 years . It is preceded by perimenopause, also called premenopause (which begins around the age of 40 and lasts between 1 and 8 years).

Does menopause affect libido?

Yes, menopause can affect libido. Hormonal fluctuations can cause a decrease in sexual desire . However, there are ways to maintain a satisfying sex life during menopause, such as open communication with your partner and exploring new ways of intimacy.

Is weight gain common during menopause?

Yes, many women experience weight gain during menopause. Hormonal changes can slow metabolism and cause fat to be redistributed in the body. However, a balanced diet and regular exercise can help maintain a healthy weight during this time.

Can menopause cause urinary problems?

Yes, menopause can lead to urinary issues such as leaking urine or increased urinary frequency. This is due to the decrease in estrogen levels, which can affect the tone of the pelvic muscles. Pelvic floor strengthening exercises can help.

Are there treatments to relieve the symptoms of menopause?

Yes, there are hormonal treatments for the symptoms of menopause (THM) , but the natural solutions are not harmful in the long term . The Haute Autorité de Santé also explains that "the main known and identified risks of THMs are breast cancer [...], endometrial cancer [...], ovarian cancer, risk of venous thromboembolism and stroke."

We therefore strongly recommend opting for alternative solutions like the one we presented to you on Gapianne, 100% natural, organic and yet effective in helping you soothe the signs of menopause.

NB: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice on your situation.