The 6 main symptoms of menopause

Menopause is a natural transition 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. And yet, by understanding the symptoms associated with menopause and learning to manage them, we could approach it with more confidence and peace . That's why at Gapianne, we have brought together in one place natural and healthy solutions for the body aimed at people going through menopause .

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 first symptom and also the most well-known: the cessation of periods

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

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

How to best manage irregular menstrual flow?

To make your period easier, we recommend opting for menstrual panties that you can wear "just in case." Smoon's organic cotton period panties are ideal because they're seamless and comfortable to wear day and night. This French brand also offers menstrual swimsuits and swim briefs for beach and pool sessions. Sportswomen will also find what they're 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 characterized by a sudden sensation of intense heat that rises from the chest to the face. Some women describe them as a feeling of being on fire , as if a burning inferno is igniting inside their body.

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

How to relieve hot flashes?

To relieve hot flashes, it is recommended to wear light clothing made from natural fabrics (linen, cotton, etc.), avoid overly spicy foods, and maintain a cool room temperature in your environment.

For more concrete solutions, discover Jho's organic food supplements , composed of 6 active ingredients that will help you alleviate these problems thanks in particular to sage, known for regulating excessive sweating, and maca, an effective energizer for combating hormonal imbalance.

We also recommend having a refreshing mist handy to spray on your face and décolleté when hot flashes are too intense.

3rd symptom of menopause: sleep disorders

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.

Hormonal fluctuations that accompany menopause can disrupt the natural sleep cycle. Additionally, night sweats (caused by hot flashes) can also disrupt sleep.

How to sleep better when you are menopausal?

To get better quality sleep, it is important to relax before going to bed so that you are in the best possible condition to go to sleep.

Our customers love Mijane infusions, known for their simple effectiveness. That's great because the Rituel de Morphée herbal tea, dedicated to improving sleep, is now available at Gapianne! Made with organic CBD, chamomile, lemon balm, lemon verbena, and hops, this organic, made-in-France infusion helps you relax before bed.

Also find this organic rooibos infusion and the 100% natural Ayurvedic infusion for 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 a loss of motivation during this time of their lives (well, that reminds us of PMS and periods ).

How to regulate your mood during menopause?

Recognizing and managing these mood swings is important for maintaining good mental and emotional health. Practicing relaxation techniques, such as meditation or yoga, can help reduce stress and promote a sense of well-being.

Add to this solutions like 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 CBD oil 5% from Ho Karan , relaxing and non-habit forming.

5th symptom: hormonal acne, a sign of menopause

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

Natural Treatment and Effective Solutions for Hormonal Acne

To care for your skin during menopause, it is recommended to use moisturizing products adapted to your skin type . You might be interested in Oden's anti-blemish oil or the face oil for mature skin , also from the great brand Oden .

Find our other treatments for mature skin .

6th symptom of menopause: vaginal dryness and decreased libido

As we have seen previously, estrogen production 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 sexual intercourse uncomfortable or painful , which can lead to a decrease in libido . In addition, the decrease in testosterone during menopause can also contribute to the decrease in libido, as this hormone plays an important role in women's desire. However, it is important to emphasize that the decrease in libido is not systematic and that it varies from one woman to another.

Natural solutions for intimate dryness

This topic is important and that's why we have a collection dedicated to vaginal dryness and intimate comfort . We recommend using care products that will rehydrate and soothe your vulva. For example, Baûbo's vulva balm, Miyé's intimate gel , or Nidéco's probiotic-enriched (good bacteria) care , which strengthens the vaginal flora by rebalancing it.

How to boost your libido during menopause?

Boosting your sex drive during menopause is possible! First, read our article on Low Libido in Women to familiarize yourself with the topic.

Menopause is a great time to explore or rediscover your body and its pleasures. It's the time to take stock and figure out what excites you now. To boost your desires, you can try masturbation with or without a sex toy (and if you're a beginner, don't worry, we have some tips on how to do it). Let yourself be guided by The Female Masturbation Guide, a bestseller on the subject.

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 try the Libido + treatment from TwentyEight based on 4 plants (shatavari, maca, lady's mantle, ashwaganda).

All our natural treatments: libido and menopause >

Menopause Symptoms: The Recap

Menopause is a natural transition in a woman's life . While it can be accompanied by disconcerting symptoms, it's important to remember that every woman experiences menopause differently. By understanding common symptoms like hot flashes, sleep disturbances, mood swings, and skin problems, you can take steps to lessen their impact on your daily life.

Do not hesitate to consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice on managing menopause symptoms.

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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 years). 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 lead to 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 redistribution 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 cause urinary problems such as urinary leakage or increased urinary frequency. This is due to decreasing estrogen levels, which can affect pelvic muscle tone. Pelvic floor strengthening exercises can help.

Can menopause cause constipation?

Yes, constipation can be a symptom of menopause. Hormonal changes, including declining estrogen and progesterone levels, can affect the functioning of the digestive system.

Are there any treatments to relieve the symptoms of menopause?

Yes, there are hormonal treatments for menopause symptoms (HTM) , but natural solutions are not harmful in the long term . The French National Authority for Health explains that "the main known and identified risks of HRT are breast cancer [...], endometrial cancer [...], ovarian cancer, the 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 is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for advice tailored to your situation.