Hormonal fluctuations and menopause: a guide to feeling your best

Some stages of life arrive without announcements or instructions. Just subtle signs that something is changing: your body reacts differently, emotions intensify without warning, and everyday life starts to feel unfamiliar. It’s not easy to put a name to what’s happening. However, you also can’t ignore it! Hormonal fluctuations may not always be visible, but you can certainly feel them. The good news is they don’t have to become a problem or something unmanageable. 

There are answers to the questions that may arise, as well as ways to manage them effectively. Keep reading to find out more! 

What are hormonal fluctuations during menopause? 

Hormonal fluctuations are variations in oestrogen and progesterone levels that occur irregularly. This process doesn’t happen suddenly. Instead, it progresses through different stages and begins during perimenopause. At this time, menstrual cycles start to show irregularities, and over time, symptoms may appear with greater intensity. 

The female body relies on a delicate balance between oestrogen and progesterone. However, as the years pass, these fluctuations reduce the production of these hormones. This decrease creates an imbalance that affects multiple bodily functions. The leading cause is ovarian decline, although genetics, lifestyle, and overall health also play an essential role.

Common symptoms caused by hormonal fluctuations 

Symptoms do not appear in the same way for every woman. However, there are common signs that can affect both physical and emotional well-being. 

Physical: hot flushes, night sweats, vaginal dryness 

You’ve probably heard of hot flushes. In fact, they are the most well-known symptom, often described as sudden waves of heat. Night sweats frequently accompany them, disrupting sleep and leading to accumulated fatigue. 

Vaginal dryness is also common, affecting both intimacy and sexual health. In addition, these physical changes may be linked to fatigue, a slower metabolism, or bloating.

Emotional and cognitive: mood and sleep changes 

Mood swings can be unsettling. For example, you might feel irritability, sudden sadness, or episodes of anxiety that appear without warning. 

Sleep disturbances are also common, increasing daily tiredness. Some women report difficulties concentrating or occasional memory lapses. 

These changes are often related to periods of high oestrogen. As a result, emotional and cognitive symptoms blend with physical ones, reducing overall quality of life.

How do hormonal fluctuations affect mood and sleep? 

Reduced oestrogen can interfere with neurotransmitters such as serotonin, which helps explain the connection between hormonal changes and emotional fluctuations. 

Moreover, hot flushes at night can interrupt sleep. Poor sleep then leads to irritability, fatigue, and reduced concentration. In short, it becomes a cycle where body and mind continuously affect one another. 

Fortunately, most of these symptoms can be managed. Here’s how: 

Hormone treatments for menopause symptoms 

Hormone therapy is the most researched option for easing discomfort. It involves administering oestrogen, sometimes combined with progesterone. These treatments are designed to: 

They are available in tablets, patches, gels, or vaginal rings, which means they can be adapted to different needs. 

Risks and benefits of hormone therapy for menopause 

The main benefits include reducing severe symptoms and protecting against bone loss. However, hormone therapy is not without risks. 

For instance, potential concerns include cardiovascular effects or an increased likelihood of certain types of cancer. Therefore, a healthcare professional must assess and supervise any treatment carefully. 

How long do hormonal fluctuations last? 

The duration varies for each woman. On average, the stage before menopause—known as perimenopause—can last between 2 and 8 years, typically around 4 years. Symptoms gradually ease after menopause, although specific changes may continue. 

Hormonal fluctuations and bone and heart health 

Oestrogen plays a vital role in bone formation and protection. When levels drop, the risk of osteoporosis and fractures increases. Likewise, this affects heart health, as sex hormones help maintain arterial elasticity. 

In addition, reduced hormone levels can raise LDL cholesterol and promote high blood pressure, which increases the risk of heart disease. 

Possible changes during perimenopause and menopause 

During perimenopause, menstrual cycles often become irregular, and early symptoms such as hot flushes or mood changes start to appear. 

The women enter the menopause phase when they do not have a period for 12 consecutive months, with no other apparent cause. At this stage, it is common to experience weight gain, redistribution of body fat, hair thinning, and skin changes. 

Do not face the hormonal fluctuations during menopause in silence. At Issviva, we support you with products, advice, and a community to help you reconnect with your well-being. 

Don’t wait! Take the first step towards a fulfilling life. It’s simple: choose solutions designed for you and turn this stage into an experience of self-care and empowerment. 

References