Intimate Care School
The period
The vagina & vulva
The menopause
![Menopause](https://ellen.se/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/menopause-720x393.jpg)
Menopause symtoms
Common symptoms during menopause are often characterized by:
Hot flushes
A hot flush feels like a wave of heat going through your body. It usually starts at the top of the chest and continues up the neck, further up the head and face and then goes out into the arms. Many people experience that their face gets red and that they start to sweat. A hot flush often lasts two to three minutes but can also last longer.
Sleeping problems
During menopause, many people experience problems with their sleep. It may feel more difficult to fall asleep or that you wake up during the night. For example due to a hot flush.
Mood swings and depression
It is common to feel more easily irritated and that the mood can change quickly. Some may suffer from depression in connection with the menopause. Then it is important to seek help.
![PMS ägglossning](https://ellen.se/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/pexels-alex-green-5700205.jpg)
DRY MUCOSARES
A common symptom during menopause is dry mucous membranes. When the mucous membranes become thinner and drier, you may experience a burning sensation in the intimate area.
REDUCED SEX DESIRE
Dry mucous membranes can also lead to feeling a reduced sex drive. It may even hurt and start to bleed a little during vaginal intercourse.
Intimate area problems
During menopause, the acidity in the vagina changes, which affects the pH balance in the vagina. This makes the vagina more susceptible to bacteria, which can cause, among other thingsyeast infections or bacterial vaginosis. The mucous membranes around the urethra and bladder also become thinner during menopause, which makes it easier to get a urinary tract infection. It is also common to feel the need to pee more often than before and that it is more difficult to hold back.
YOU ARE NOT ALONE
Some women experience depression and sadness over what has been. You have entered a new phase in life that you don’t know much about. Talk to friends, family and your partner about your thoughts and feelings. Friends are probably going through similar experiences and it can be good for your partner to know what you are feeling, to be able to offer support.
![the menopause guide](https://ellen.se/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/the-menopause-guide-652x521.png)
Perimenopause symptoms
For many women, the perimenopause occurs around 4 years before the menopause. These are some common symtoms:
- Irritation
- Anxiety
- Tiredness
- Mood swings
- Sleeping problems
- Night sweats
- Soar breasts
- Changed menstrual cycle
Postmenopause
The symptoms you may experience during the menopause can continue for 2-5 years during the postmenopause. A common complaint that many women experience after menopause is dry and fragile mucous membranes. When you experience a chafing or burning sensation in the intimate area due to dry mucous membranes, it can be nice to lubricate and moisturize. ellen® Probiotic Cream is a hormone-free intimate cream that contains natural lactic acid bacteria with moisturizing properties and softening coconut oil.
How to relieve menopause symptoms
Physical activity
Being physically active can have a positive effect on mood. Moving can also reduce hot flashes and sweating, while it is also good for the skeleton, heart and blood vessels.
Avoid coffee, tea and alcohol
Coffee, tea and alcohol can make hot flashes and sweating worse. Alcohol also affects your mood and can disturb your sleep. Try reducing your intake of these drinks or cutting them out completely to see if you notice any improvement.
Do not smoke
Smoking often worsens the symptoms that can occur during menopause. Therefore it is a good reason to stop smoking, if you have not already done so.
![lindra klimakteriebesvär](https://ellen.se/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/pexels-mikhail-nilov-6740754.jpg)
Relaxation exercises
Slowing down and doing relaxation exercises can reduce problems with hot flashes and sweating.
Adjust your clothing
Wear loose-fitting clothes and try to dress in several thin layers. Then you can easily take off a layer when a hot flush occurs. Also avoid clothes made of synthetic materials as they can make you sweat even more.
Take extra care of your intimate area
Avoid washing the intimate area more than once a day as it can have cause dryness and irritation. Always wash with water or use a pH-balanced intimate cleanser to not disturb the natural pH balance.
Seek help
When the mucous membranes loose its elasticity, it can lead to vaginal discomfort and this is not your fault and it is a natural development, but can affect the well being. It is important to remember that you are not alone in experiencing changes along with the menopause.
It is a good idea to speak to a gynecologist or health center so that you can receive help regarding any concerns and problems, especially if they affect your quality of life.