Latest news with #SherryRoss
Time of India
14 hours ago
- Health
- Time of India
What is Ozempic Vulva, the little-known side effect of the popular weight loss drug women are talking about
You've likely heard of 'Ozempic face', 'Ozempic tongue', 'Ozempic feet', and 'Ozempic hands'. Here's a new addition: Ozempic vulva. Making its turn around the social media frequently now, Ozempic vulva isn't a medical diagnosis; rather, it's a label coined by women noticing unexpected changes in their vulva or vaginal area after using Ozempic or similar GLP-1 weight-loss drugs. Ozempic is a widely used weight-loss and diabetes medication, but some women taking it are reporting surprising and sensitive side effects. These changes include sagging skin, dryness, muscle weakness, loss of fullness, altered discharge, and even pelvic weakness. While it may sound surprising, experts say these shifts are often tied to rapid weight loss, hormone shifts, and hydration changes. What is Ozempic? Ozempic (semaglutide) is a well-known prescription drug that's used to treat the blood sugar of people with type 2 diabetes. Ozempic is given as an injection under your skin. Ozempic is also used to lower the risk of cardiovascular events (heart attack, stroke, or death) in people who have type 2 diabetes and heart disease. The Food and Drug Administration first approved the injectable medication for treating diabetes in 2017; the agency approved a drug with a higher dose of the active ingredient in Ozempic, called semaglutide, to treat obesity in 2021, under the brand name Wegovy. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like This Could Be the Best Time to Trade Gold in 5 Years IC Markets Learn More Undo Since then, talk of the drug has popped up across the internet. The prescription drug keeps gaining attention as celebrities, a tech mogul, and TikTok influencers have described taking it to lose weight in short time frames. What is Ozempic vulva? Known casually as 'Ozempic vulva' or 'Ozempic vagina', the issue refers to changes in the genital area linked to rapid weight loss. It's not an official medical term. Instead, it's a nickname women have coined to describe certain changes in the genital area while using GLP-1 medications like Ozempic, Wegovy, or Mounjaro. Though not formally acknowledged by drugmakers, more users are sharing what they notice, and experts are now paying attention. As reported by the NY Post, Dr. Sherry Ross, an OB-GYN in Santa Monica, CA, and author of 'She-ology' and 'She-ology, the She-quel,' told HealthCentral, '[The rapidity of] weight loss can cause visible skin sagging, laxity and wrinkles throughout the body,' adding, 'All areas of the body can show visible skin changes in response to this significant weight loss,' she added, 'including the lower belly, pubic mons, and inner and outer labia. ' Why does it happen and how? The vagina is surrounded by two sets of 'lips' or folds of skin. The labia majora are the outer, larger folds, while the labia minora are the inner, smaller folds. They extend from the mons pubis, the rounded, fatty area over the pubic bone. Some GLP-1 users have complained that their weight loss has led to a decrease in the volume of their labia majora, causing it to appear deflated or aged. Labia puffing may help. The procedure restores volume and fullness to the labia majora via dermal fillers or fat grafting. Experts point to a few key factors contributing to Ozempic vulva: Rapid weight loss: The fast reduction in body fat doesn't allow skin and soft tissues to adapt, leading to sagging or volume loss in areas like the labia and pubic mound. Muscle loss: Alongside fat loss, muscle mass, including pelvic floor muscles, can decrease. This may reduce support and sensation in the vulvovaginal area. Hormones and hydration: Less fat means less stored estrogen, which helps maintain vaginal moisture and tissue health. GI side effects like vomiting or diarrhea can cause dehydration, worsening dryness. Microbiome disruption: Since GLP-1 drugs slow digestion, they can alter gut bacteria. Because gut and vaginal microbes are linked, this may increase the risk of imbalances and infections As per the NY Post, Dr. Michael Tahery, a board-certified OB/GYN in LA, noted on his website that the fillers used in labia puffing are comparable to facial fillers. The tiny injections can last up to eight months a session and don't require recovery time. With fat grafts, a doctor injects a small amount of fat from the patient's thigh, abdomen, or elsewhere in their body into the labia. 'The benefit of this treatment is that it does not pose risks for rejection because it uses the patient's own fat,' Tahery wrote. 'The fat is easily reabsorbed by the body over time.' Labiaplasty to reshape the labia and vaginal tightening to restore firmness to the vaginal canal may also provide relief. Ozempic Vulva: Common complaints What happens due to the phenomenon of Ozempic vulva? Medical professionals have outlined three key issues associated with this phenomenon: Sagging or aged appearance of the labia: Rapid fat loss can diminish the padding in the outer labia and pubic area, causing a 'deflated,' wrinkled, or aged look. Pelvic weakness and vaginal looseness: GLP-1 medications don't just reduce fat; they can also lead to muscle loss, including in pelvic muscles. Women may feel reduced tone or looseness, impacting comfort and sexual experience. Dryness and vaginal irritation: Dehydration from GI side effects like nausea or diarrhea, along with hormone shifts that reduce natural lubrication, can lead to dryness and discomfort. Other related symptoms noted include changes in vaginal discharge, odor, and infections, as the gut-vagina microbial balance may be affected. Real women, real experiences As reported by The Sun, 30-year-old Paige Osprey noticed sagging of her labia after losing three stone (≈19 kg) with weight-loss injections like Ozempic. She even mentioned what she called a 'cameltoe' effect in tight clothing, a visibility she found distressing. The changes interfered with intimacy and self-esteem. As reported by The Sun, Paige opted for a labia puffing procedure using hyaluronic acid filler, which some call 'the other lip filler,' and says it restored volume and confidence, even renewing her sex life. What to do if you notice Ozempic vulva? First and foremost, consult your healthcare provider if you experience dryness, sagging, or discomfort. Second order of business: hydrate well, especially if you're dealing with gastrointestinal side effects. Consider supporting your pelvic floor health with exercises and moderating the pace of weight loss to give your body time to adapt. Topical solutions like lubricants, moisturizers, or probiotics can support vaginal health and balance microbiome risks. Besides, cosmetic or reconstructive options such as labia puffing (fillers or fat grafts) or labiaplasty are available. However, these should be approached carefully and discussed with a qualified provider. This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. 'Ozempic vulva' is an informal term and not a recognized medical diagnosis. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before making any decisions about medications, side effects, or treatments. Inside Ozempic: Does the drug really help in weight loss and what are its possible side effects?
New York Post
a day ago
- Health
- New York Post
‘Ozempic vulva' is making women look aged and droopy down there
They dropped — and then they drooped. Ozempic and other GLP-1 drugs have become extremely popular for their ability to manage Type 2 diabetes symptoms and spur weight loss. A recent study found that about 4% of Americans took these meds last year. As GLP-1s have become widely used, there's been a corresponding increase in awareness of their potential risks and side effects. Add another one to the list — 'Ozempic vulva' or 'Ozempic vagina.' Advertisement 3 Some GLP-1 users have complained that their weight loss has led to 'Ozempic vulva,' a decrease in the volume of their labia majora. alones – '[The rapidity of] weight loss can cause visible skin sagging, laxity and wrinkles throughout the body,' Dr. Sherry Ross, an OB-GYN in Santa Monica, CA, and author of 'She-ology' and 'She-ology, the She-quel,' told HealthCentral. 'All areas of the body can show visible skin changes in response to this significant weight loss,' she added, 'including the lower belly, pubic mons and inner and outer labia.' Advertisement The vagina is surrounded by two sets of 'lips' or folds of skin. The labia majora are the outer, larger folds, while the labia minora are the inner, smaller folds. They extend from the mons pubis, the rounded, fatty area over the pubic bone. 3 A recent study found that about 4% of Americans took Ozempic or GLP-1 drugs last year. Ole – Some GLP-1 users have complained that their weight loss has led to a decrease in the volume of their labia majora, causing it to appear deflated or aged. Advertisement Labia puffing may help. The procedure restores volume and fullness to the labia majora via dermal fillers or fat grafting. Dr. Michael Tahery, a board-certified OB/GYN in LA, notes on his website that the fillers used in labia puffing are comparable to facial fillers. The tiny injections can last up to eight months a session and don't require recovery time. With fat grafts, a doctor injects a small amount of fat from the patient's thigh, abdomen or elsewhere in their body into the labia. Advertisement 'The benefit of this treatment is that it does not pose risks for rejection because it uses the patient's own fat,' Tahery wrote. 'The fat is easily reabsorbed by the body over time.' Labiaplasty to reshape the labia and vaginal tightening to restore firmness to the vaginal canal may also provide relief. 3 Women are getting 'labia puff' surgery for more 'youthful,' voluminous vulvas. Svetlana – Dr. Justin Perron, a specialist plastic surgeon in Australia, said he's fielded a surge in vaginal rejuvenation consultation appointments as GLP-1 drugs have grown in popularity. 'I personally see these requests several times a week,' Perron told The Daily Mail. Other unusual side effects of GLP-1 drugs, which suppress appetite by mimicking a hormone the body naturally produces after eating, include Ozempic finger, Ozempic breasts, Ozempic face and Ozempic butt. Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea are among the more common consequences of these meds.
Yahoo
30-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Your complete guide to getting menopause help online
Menopause is having a moment. Celebrities are speaking up, the menopause wellness industry is booming and there's a good chance your Insta feed is overflowing with #menobelly content. But there's still one place where "menopause" remains something of a whisper: the doctor's office. Scratch that — more often than not, it's your brick-and-mortar doctor's office where menopause is still treated like a side note, if it's addressed at all. Enter the age of menopause telehealth — where online clinics are reshaping how women access midlife care, one video visit at a time. Roughly 42% of women now use telemedicine, according to the latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. And specialized menopause clinics — like Midi Health, MenopauseRX and others — have exploded onto the scene in response, with multiple startups launching in just the past few years. As Dr. Sherry Ross, ob-gyn at Providence Saint John's Health Center in Santa Monica, Calif. and author of She-ology, puts it, "This surge in virtual menopause care solves many of the ongoing problems with our current health care system." But are online menopause clinics sacrificing quality for convenience? Here's what you need to know: Why you might need a menopause specialist — not just your regular doctor You have a doctor. You trust them. Maybe they delivered your baby, got you through your annual Pap with nary a wince or called in your UTI scripts approximately a zillion times. But when it comes to perimenopause and menopause? Even the most dependable physician might not be up to speed. Carolyn G. from Napa, Calif., didn't even bother reaching out to her regular doctor when her menopausal symptoms flared. "A health coach recommended Midi, a telehealth option, and that's where I found what I needed — someone who specialized specifically in menopause care." Her story isn't unusual. A 2025 survey of 1,000 women aged 45 to 60 found that nearly 71% said their doctor didn't adequately prepare them for menopause — or offer a thorough discussion of treatment options. Another 1,000 person survey found that 50% of women who have discussed menopause with their provider said they were the ones who initiated the conversation — not their physician. Part of the problem? Most medical training barely touches menopause. According to a 2019 Mayo Clinic report, only 7% of medical residents said they felt prepared to manage it. To put it simply, "there's an urgent need for appropriate menopause care, and telehealth platforms can fulfill some of this need," says Dr. Robin Noble, a gynecologist in Portland, Maine, and the chief medical adviser at Let's Talk Menopause, a nonprofit working to improve menopause care. How menopause telehealth works — and when it's worth it Before the pandemic, nearly every woman — 92% — wanted to see their menopause provider face-to-face. By 2022, that number slid to 71%, according to a report in the journal Patient Related Outcome Measures, reflecting a clear trend: Women are becoming more comfortable turning to screens for symptom relief, answers and evidence-based support. And providers get it. "Same-day care in the comfort of your home, affordable and flexible scheduling and easy access to knowledgeable providers — that's a big win when you need life-changing guidance through the hormonal chaos of menopause," says Ross. But it's not just about convenience. Telehealth allows health care providers to reach women in menopause in underserved areas where there's a paucity of certified menopause specialists, as noted in a video released by the Menopause Society. That accessibility — and focus — is a major part of the appeal. "Theoretically, most menopausal symptoms can be managed virtually," says Dr. Stephanie Faubion, medical director of the Menopause Society. Those include many of the most common struggles, such as: Hot flashes Night sweats Sleep problems Mood changes Weight gain Low libido Vaginal dryness (in some cases) For many women, virtual care has been a turning point. Two years after Carolyn G. started her menopause telehealth journey, she reports that the care she's received has been "nothing short of transformative." When virtual menopause care can fall short Still, not every woman going through menopause can — or should — turn to online clinics for guidance and treatment. According to an editorial in the journal Climacteric, many women with co-morbidities don't fit in the menopause-only telehealth model. Telemedicine simply can't replace regular clinical examinations and in-depth screenings. It's nearly impossible for a virtual menopause visit to properly address acute clinical problems such as vaginal discharge, unexpected bleeding or breast lumps. Noble agrees, says that "abnormal bleeding, postmenopausal bleeding, vaginal discharge and breast masses are symptoms that should always be managed in person." These symptoms can point to more serious issues that require a physical exam or additional testing. Even vaginal dryness, which is often addressed virtually, has its limitations. "Symptoms like vulvar dryness or irritation may be caused by other conditions — such as vulvar dermatoses — that can't be properly diagnosed without an in-person visit," says Faubion. Ross adds that when symptoms are complex or unclear, it's safest to see someone face-to-face. Not sure when to see someone in person? Here's when it matters most: Irregular or postmenopausal bleeding Painful intercourse Vaginal irritation or discharge Urinary issues Breast or skin changes Dizziness or vertigo Persistent headaches Unexplained fatigue How to find the best menopause telehealth provider for you While dutifully typing "how to find a menopause telehealth provider" into your search engine is certainly one way to start looking, it may not be the best strategy. Here's how to skip the digital noise and find care that actually fits. Contact your insurance provider. Not appealing, we know! But knowing what's covered and what's not is a great starting point. Aetna, for example, covers virtual visits to both Midi and Gennev, but you'll still need to double-check your own benefits because coverage varies wildly. Also ask whether lab work and prescription therapies are included. Look beyond teleclinics: While it's no doubt a struggle to locate an in-person menopause specialist, many traditional providers offer telehealth appointments. In fact, the CDC reports that nearly 60% of medical specialists now use telemedicine for at least a quarter of their patient visits — and a solid 1 in 4 use it for half or more. That means your local gynecologist — or meno rock star, if you're lucky — might already offer virtual care. Even Faubion, who's also director of the Mayo Clinic Center for Women's Health in Jacksonville, Fla., offers video visits for her patients with menopause. Find a certified specialist. "At a minimum, your provider needs to have a medical license, and ideally they should be certified in menopause management by the Menopause Society, known as a Menopause Society Certified Practitioner (MSCP)," says Faubion. To locate a care provider who fits the bill, search the Menopause Society directory. It's not exhaustive, but it's one of the best places to start. Check for smart safeguards. "Telehealth companies should have clear policies on data privacy and storage, security measures for patient-doctor communication, secure login protocols, compliance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) and easy customer support access," says Ross. Ask around. Look beyond the homepage hype — real users will tell you how responsive the care team is, whether prescriptions were personalized and if the costs were what they expected. Start by asking friends, family and even colleagues if you're comfortable. Then, of course, Google the platform name plus 'reviews,' checking resources like Trustpilot and Reddit. Red flags to watch for in online menopause clinics Online menopause care can be convenient and effective — but not every clinic is created equal. Here's what to watch for. Rushing through your medical history: "From what I've seen, most online platforms don't take a good medical history," says Faubion. Quality menopause care starts with understanding your complete health picture, including a comprehensive review of your physical and mental health history, current symptoms and any medications you're taking. Dropping the ball with follow-ups: "These platforms can help with access, but they don't always deliver ongoing follow-up — and that's a problem," says Noble. Proper care requires regular monitoring of your progress as well as communication with your broader care team when needed. Lacking teamwork: "My biggest concern is not the online model itself — it's the lack of integration with a patient's other medical care that's troubling," says Faubion. Coordinated care matters, especially for patients managing other health issues alongside menopause. Without it, important context can be missed — and that can affect treatment safety and outcomes. Pushing unnecessary testing: Here's something that might surprise you: hormone testing is neither required nor recommended before starting hormone therapy, according to experts. That's because there's no ideal targeted hormone level that determines safe and effective HRT dosage. In most cases, symptoms — not lab results — should guide treatment. Always ask how a test will inform your treatment. Pressuring you to buy their products: "The emphasis should always be on patient care, education and treatment management — not on selling supplements or in-house products," says Ross. "If you feel pressured to buy in-house products over receiving quality care, you may not be using the right company for your medical needs." Instead, look for companies that send prescriptions to independent pharmacies — it's a good sign that the provider is prioritizing your health over their sales. How to prepare for a menopause telehealth visit Telehealth works best when you're prepared. Before your appointment, make notes about: Bothersome symptoms Medical and family history Current medications Any recent test results that might be relevant At the same time, "think about your goals and preferences — are you open to hormone therapy? Do you want lifestyle-focused recommendations?" says Noble. "Having clarity going in makes the visit far more productive." Once you're on, ask what to expect from treatment, what to do if side effects come up and whether follow-ups are built in. "Patients should ask whether the provider will monitor for effectiveness and communicate with their existing care team," says Faubion. "Also ask if they'll review or order routine screenings like mammograms and Pap smears, and follow up on the results if needed." The more you bring to the table, the more useful and personalized your virtual visit will be. Best menopause telehealth clinics to consider There are a lot of online menopause clinics out there so finding the right one takes some effort. While this is in no way a complete list, here are a handful that we think are worth looking into: Midi Health Midi earns an impressive "Excellent" rating from Trustpilot and is staffed by clinicians trained specifically in menopause and midlife health. They accept insurance (including Medicare in some states), offer built-in follow-up and care coordination and allow prescriptions to be filled at the pharmacy of your choice. Plus, Midi is available in all 50 states. While most reviewers praise Midi's care and service — including Carolyn, above — one Trustpilot user noted it may be better suited for those seeking hormone therapy. "I have a special circumstance of a blood clot disorder, so unfortunately HRT isn't helpful for me," she wrote. "I felt they really focused on pushing hormones." MyMenopauseRx While not as wide-reaching as Midi, MyMenopauseRX (available in 29 states) offers appointments with certified menopause specialists, they accept insurance and allow patients to fill prescriptions at their preferred pharmacy. The fact that "Rx" is in the name is a little off-putting — and some reviewers do feel like HRT is being heavily promoted — however, most of their Google reviews are positive, with one noting: "The level of compassion and care was impeccable. I wasn't treated like a number." Gennev Available in all 50 states and accepted by insurance, Gennev offers virtual visits with board-certified, menopause-trained doctors who. if needed, can recommend follow-up care with menopause-trained dietitians or mental health specialists. And prescriptions be filled by outside pharmacies. While they do sell some branded wellness products, this isn't central to their operation. Gennev's limited Trustpilot reviews leave a lot to be desired, but feedback in Real Patient Reviews is stellar. Maven Clinic Maven Clinic is not quite like the others. While it does deliver online menopause care, it's through your employer and health plan benefits. That means you can't sign up directly unless it's offered through your job. But if it is, you get access to menopause-trained ob-gyns, NPs, therapists, pelvic floor physical therapists, nutritionists and more. Right now, Maven's menopause program is offered by around 40 employers (including Amazon, BuzzFeed and, yes, Yahoo). If it's part of your benefits, it's a strong option to consider. As one Reddit user noted: "My Maven doctor was the first doctor to actually listen to me!" Menopause telehealth: What to keep in mind moving forward Samantha S. of Studio City, Calif., started her HRT journey with Midi Health after a colleague referral turned into a symptom breakthrough: "I don't think I would have addressed my symptoms or started HRT if I hadn't discovered Midi," she says. "They educated me, enabled me to jump in, figure out what I needed and get started with treatment ASAP." Telehealth got her in the door — but after a couple of years, she made the switch to in-person care with a gynecologist. "I ultimately just felt like she had more experience and knowledge, and preferred working with an MD who had a higher level of training," Samantha S. says. Her doctor helped fine-tune her treatment, adjusting dosage and delivery to better suit her needs. Noble isn't totally surprised. "Forming a trusted partnership between patient and healthcare provider is extremely important in an area of medicine like menopausal care, that is truly so nuanced and individualized," she says. "And it's simply more challenging to build that trust via telemedicine — but that doesn't mean it can't work." In the end, virtual menopause care can be a powerful starting point — one that gets you answers faster and helps you feel seen. But staying open to in-person expertise — especially as your care evolves — can make all the difference to your long-term results and experience as you navigate this phase of life. Meet the experts Stephanie Faubion, MD, director of the Mayo Clinic Center for Women's Health in Jacksonville, Fla., and medical director of the Menopause Society Sherry Ross, MD, ob-gyn at Providence Saint John's Health Center in Santa Monica, Calif., and author of She-ology: The Definitive Guide to Women's Intimate Health. Period. Robin Noble, MD, a gynecologist in Portland, Maine, and chief medical adviser at Let's Talk Menopause, a nonprofit working to improve menopause care Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.
Yahoo
24-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Hot flashes 101: What triggers them, how long they last and what you can do to cool down fast
It starts innocuously enough — maybe you're in a meeting or standing in line at the grocery store — when suddenly it feels like someone cranked an invisible furnace to hellish proportions. Within seconds, you're sweating, shivering and feeling your heart race. If you're a woman of a certain age, welcome to the world of hot flashes, menopause's most common and notorious symptom. Research in the Journal of Mid-Life Health shows that more than 80% of women experience these unpredictable waves of intense heat during this natural transition. But what exactly causes a hot flash? And aside from taking up permanent residence in your freezer, are there any real hot flash remedies? We turned to the experts to find out. But first, what is a hot flash anyway? Table of contents The science behind hot flashes When do hot flashes start? What do hot flashes feel like? How long do hot flashes last? Lifestyle changes to manage hot flashes Consider medications Cooling products for hot flash relief Meet the experts The science behind hot flashes Hot flashes are all in your head — literally. They start in the hypothalamus, the temperature-control center in your brain. Normally, this area keeps your body temperature in check with the precision of a NASA engineer. But during perimenopause and menopause, your hypothalamus can, well, freak out. "During perimenopause, the hypothalamus becomes overly sensitive due to fluctuating and declining estrogen levels," says Dr. Sherry Ross, ob-gyn and women's health expert at Providence Saint John's Health Center in Santa Monica, Calif. "Even a small shift in temperature can be misinterpreted as overheating, prompting your body to launch a full-on cool-down response: dilated blood vessels, sweating and all." In scientific terms, these temperature swings are known as vasomotor symptoms (VMS) — and they're anything but subtle. When estrogen levels dip, the delicate balance of brain chemicals like norepinephrine and serotonin goes awry, as noted in StatPearls, a peer-reviewed medical reference. These neurotransmitters help regulate your temperature, so when they're thrown off, your hypothalamus hits the panic button and — voila! — a hot flash. This is why medications like selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) that target these chemicals have been shown to help cool things down. More on that later. When do hot flashes start? Hot flashes often emerge when estrogen levels start fluctuating in the initial stages of perimenopause, which can start up to a decade before menopause officially begins. That means hot flashes can strike as early as your 30s. A 2025 report in NPJ Women's Health found that more than half of women ages 30 to 35 experience moderate to severe symptoms associated with menopause, including hot flashes. What do hot flashes feel like? The most recognizable symptom of a hot flash is a sudden, intense sensation of heat throughout your body, usually starting in your chest or face. Red blotches may dot your chest, back and arms. "These episodes tend to last one to five minutes, leaving you flushed, sweaty, clammy or even with heart palpitations," says Ross. Night sweats — aka hot flashes that happen during sleep — are also common. These after-hours symptoms can easily disrupt your slumber, leaving you wide-eyed, drenched and exhausted. And, over time, this pattern can lead to long-term sleep disruption, wreaking havoc on everything from your cardiac health to your mood. The severity of these symptoms varies dramatically from person to person. "While hot flashes may be milder for some, others can experience them as frequent and intense enough to interfere with daily life," says Ross. How long do hot flashes last? "For most women, hot flashes last about three to five years, but for others, they can persist for a decade or more," says Dr. Rhonda Voskuhl, a neurologist for the Comprehensive Menopause Care Program at the University of California, Los Angeles. In fact, some battle the heat for a gobsmacking 14 years, according to research in JAMA Internal Medicine. But before you lose your cool (wink, wink), Voskuhl notes: "Everyone experiences hot flashes differently — some people may have more than 10 hot flashes a day, while others might only deal with them occasionally." While hot flashes are typically a normal part of the menopause journey, in rare cases they can be symptoms of other conditions, such as thyroid disease or certain cancers, or they can be side effects from certain medications, like SSRIs, says Ross. That's why it's important to consult your health care provider, especially if symptoms feel unusual or appear earlier than expected. Lifestyle changes to manage hot flashes There are several lifestyle changes that can go a long way in reducing the intensity and frequency of hot flashes, according to research in the journal Menopause. Here's what experts suggest: Skip spicy foods If you're a fan of heat — in your food, that is — it's a good idea to dial it down right now. Spicy dishes, especially those that contain jalapeño, habanero and serrano peppers can trigger hot flashes and sweating because they contain capsaicin, a chemical compound that produces heat sensations. "Capsaicin makes the blood vessels dilate and fill with blood, which causes a warm sensation — and hot flashes and sweating can occur as a result of this phenomenon," says Ross. Limit alcoholic beverages That nightly glass of wine you used to look forward to? It might be plotting against you. Research in the journal Nutrients suggests that any level of regular drinking increases hot flash risk, with moderate drinkers (one and a half to three drinks a day) showing double the risk and heavy drinkers (more than three drinks a day) showing more than triple the risk compared with women who abstain from alcohol. While any alcohol can bring on the flash, Ross shares that red wine might be the biggest culprit. "Red wine causes the blood vessels to relax, vasodilate and expand, making you feel warm or flushed," she says. "Some experience intense hot flashes while others only feel warmer." Exercise regularly The Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans recommends exercising for at least 2.5 hours a week, whether you're hot flashing or not. But sticking to those guidelines is especially important for hot flash relief. Regular exercise that improves cardio fitness appears to retrain your body's temperature control system, making it more efficient at cooling down, potentially reducing both the frequency and severity of hot flashes, according to a small study in the journal Menopause. However, jumping into super-intense workouts might have the opposite effect. A 2024 report from the Menopause Society found that sudden spikes in physical activity — doing way more than your usual routine — can trigger hot flashes in the short term. The key is consistency over intensity: building up your fitness gradually with steady, regular workouts rather than dramatic increases in activity. Try stress-reduction techniques Stress doesn't just mess with your mood — it can boost the intensity and frequency of hot flashes. That's because stress hormones like cortisol can further throw off your already sensitive internal thermostat. Evidence-backed methods like cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and clinical hypnosis can make a real dent. In one randomized controlled trial of more than 180 postmenopausal women, those who received regular hypnosis saw a 74% drop in hot flash frequency and severity compared with a control group. Another proven option? Mindfulness-based interventions (MBIs) — think meditation, body scans or guided breathing. A 2025 systematic review found that women practicing MBIs reported better sleep, improved mood, reduced anxiety and stress and a general boost in quality of life. Bonus: These practices are safe, accessible and easy to stick with. Consider medications "If hot flashes are severely interfering with daily life, sleep or mood — and lifestyle changes aren't helping — it's time to consider medical intervention," says Dr. Andrea Matsumura, board-certified sleep medicine physician and cofounder of the Portland Menopause Collective in Oregon. "Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is the most effective option for those who are good candidates." If you're not a candidate for HRT, due to a history of breast cancer, blood clots or heart disease, other options include: Veozah: A newer, FDA-approved medication that helps reduce hot flashes by triggering temperature-regulating neurons in the brain. SSRIs and SNRIs: Low doses of certain antidepressants (like paroxetine or venlafaxine) can lessen hot flashes by calming the part of the brain that controls body temperature. Gabapentin: Originally used to treat seizures and nerve pain, this med has also proved to help with hot flashes — especially at night. Cooling products for hot-flash relief Will the just-right buy from Amazon cure you of hot flashes? If only! But certain cool-down products can help. Ross recommends using breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics — whether in clothes or bedsheets — and investing in a fan for your bedside to combat pesky night sweats. Here are a few more cooling products to consider: Hot flashes can feel like an uncontrollable force taking over your body, but you have more power than you might think. The right mix of lifestyle tweaks, smart cooling strategies and medical backup when you need it can help you regain control. Every woman's experience is different, so work with your healthcare provider to figure out what combination will help you feel like yourself again. Meet the experts Sherry Ross, MD, ob-gyn at Providence Saint John's Health Center in Santa Monica, Calif. Rhonda Voskuhl, MD, a neurologist for the Comprehensive Menopause Care Program at UCLA Andrea Matsumura, MD, board-certified sleep medicine physician and co-founder of the Portland Menopause Collective in Oregon Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.
Yahoo
28-05-2025
- General
- Yahoo
13 Menopause Symptoms You May Not Have Heard About
"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links."Certain symptoms of menopause get more attention than others. Most people are aware that hot flashes and night sweats can come with the territory, but there are other side effects to have on your radar, including ones related to your skin and even your taste buds. Let's back up a moment: Perimenopause, which is the phase leading up to menopause, and menopause, which is when you naturally stop having periods, cause hormonal changes like a drop in estrogen production. That plummet in estrogen is largely responsible for the symptoms of menopause, explains Sherry Ross, M.D., an ob/gyn and women's health expert at Providence Saint John's Health Center in Santa Monica, CA. Unfortunately, many of these symptoms aren't discussed. That can lead women to feel uneasy when they experience 'weird' menopause symptoms that are actually quite common. Meet the experts: Sherry Ross, M.D., is an ob/gyn and women's health expert at Providence Saint John's Health Center in Santa Monica, CA. Lauren Streicher, M.D., is a clinical professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine and host of the podcast Come Again. Ife J. Rodney, M.D., is the founding director of Eternal Dermatology + Aesthetics. If you're dealing with symptoms that are interfering with your day-to-day or you're just uncomfortable, it's important to talk to your healthcare provider. Whether or not they're related to menopause, there may be treatment options available to help, and it's ideal to get personalized advice. But it's also key to understand what's happening in your body during this life phase, and why. With that in mind, these are some of the menopause symptoms you might experience—remember, every woman's experience can be unique—along with what you can do to help deal with them. That drop in estrogen can impact your skin's ability to retain moisture and produce collagen and elastin, which help give skin a youthful appearance, explains Ife J. Rodney, M.D., founding director of Eternal Dermatology + Aesthetics. 'Your skin also produces less sebum (or oil), which can lead to dryness,' she says. Washing with a mild cleanser, applying moisturizer with hyaluronic acid or glycerin after you take a bath or shower and throughout the day can be helpful, according to the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD).$13.52 at A decline in the hormone progesterone in menopause, as well as hot flashes, can disrupt sleep, says Lauren Streicher, M.D., a clinical professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine and host of the podcast Come Again. One of the most effective ways to combat this is hormone therapy, which helps to raise the levels of estrogen or estrogen and progesterone in your body, Dr. Ross says. Following a set bedtime routine, keeping your bedroom at a comfortable temperature, and getting regular exercise may help, too, according to the National Institute on Aging (NIA). A note on hormone therapy: While it can be helpful for many of these menopausal symptoms, there are a range of factors to consider, including how long ago you started menopause and your age. So, talk to your doctor to see whether you're a good candidate, and which type of hormone therapy may be best for you. Because estrogen helps support joint and muscle health, and can tamp down on inflammation, muscle and joint discomfort could arise when estrogen declines, Dr. Streicher explains. 'Keep in mind that people in mid-life are at risk for joint and muscle pain anyway,' Dr. Streicher says. While Dr. Streicher says that hormone therapy can help, she also suggests doing your best to maintain a healthy weight. 'Weight training and resistance training may help, too,' she says. There are estrogen receptors in your breast tissue, which means a drop in estrogen can lead to breast changes, Dr. Streicher says. 'Some people get increased breast tenderness and fullness during perimenopause,' she says. While there's not much you can do about this symptom, hormone therapy may counteract some of it. Many women may have a drop in saliva flow in menopause. 'Dry mouth is an under-appreciated symptom,' Dr. Streicher says. She recently did research on women and menopause, and discovered that 75% didn't realize that dry mouth was a symptom of the life stage. What's behind this? The mouth and salivary glands contain estrogen receptors, and those can be impacted by the drop in estrogen that naturally comes with menopause, Dr. Streicher says. Doing your best to stay well hydrated may help, she says. Fluctuating hormone levels can mess with your taste buds, and so can dry mouth, Dr. Streicher says. One small study even found that a 'significantly higher' percentage of women who had been through menopause couldn't identify the taste of the artificial sweetener sucralose as well as some bitter tastes compared to women who hadn't been through menopause. This is another symptom that hormone therapy may be able to mitigate. If you notice a change in the way you smell, it could be due to menopause. 'We have estrogen receptors in the skin, including in sweat glands,' Dr. Streicher says. That means your natural scent may change as your levels of estrogen drop. 'You also have people who are sweating more due to hot flashes—and that can lead to body odor,' Dr. Streicher says. Outside of hormone therapy, wearing layers that can be removed when you're hot may help, although that's not a perfect solution. Dropping estrogen levels can impact the production of keratin and collagen, proteins responsible for nail strength, Dr. Rodney says. Thyroid issues are also common in menopause, and those can impact the strength of your nails, Dr. Streicher says. Internal and external hydration (e.g. lathering up with a good hand lotion) can help with dry, brittle nails. Dr. Rodney adds that you may also want to make sure you have all of your nutritional bases covered, since some deficiencies could be at play. Talk to your doctor for personalized advice on this. Dizziness can be a sign of a lot of different health issues, making it important not to dismiss this as 'just' being due to menopause, Dr. Streicher says. But it can also be a symptom of the life phase thanks to changes in estrogen levels and insomnia, she says. 'If you have severe dizziness, I would make sure that nothing else is going on,' Dr. Streicher underscores. In other words, call or visit your doctor. Also known as paresthesia, hormonal changes in menopause like the drop in estrogen can lead to a numb, tingling feeling in some areas of the skin, Dr. Streicher says. Why? Estrogen supports healthy nerve function and, when levels drop, you can become vulnerable to nerve issues. Like dizziness, this symptom is also one of many that could be attributed to other causes and is best discussed with your doctor if it persists. Your vagina is full of hormone receptors and they're under-stimulated when you go through menopause, Dr. Streicher says. As a result, she says that 'the vaginal tissue becomes dry.' That can lead to symptoms like pain during sex, and burning or irritation. In addition to hormone therapy, using hormonal and non-hormonal vulvar and vaginal creams may help, she says. Just keep this in mind, per Dr. Streicher: 'A lot of women do require a prescription product.' So, talk to your doctor if this one is an issue for you. This is more common in perimenopause and early menopause, Dr. Streicher says. 'You have estrogen receptors throughout the brain,' she says. Going through the hormonal changes linked with perimenopause and menopause can impact your ability to think clearly as a result, she says. 'This can be treated with hormone therapy, and is a huge reason why many women take hormone therapy,' Dr. Streicher says. There are a few reasons why you may notice a change in your bowel habits. 'There are estrogen receptors throughout the gut,' Dr. Streicher says. As a result, changes in estrogen levels in your body may impact your bowel habits. But there also may be changes to your gut microbiome over time, she says. The best way to try to combat this is to focus on eating a healthy, varied diet that's high in fiber, Dr. Streicher says. While there are individual things you can do for each symptom, doctors stress that hormone therapy, also known as hormone replacement therapy, can help with many of them. 'Hormone replacement therapy is most effective in treating disruptive hot flashes, insomnia, or any menopausal symptoms negatively affecting a woman's quality of life,' Dr. Ross says. Dr. Streicher agrees. There are different forms of hormone therapy, including oral and topical formulas, Dr. Streicher points out. If you're interested in trying hormone therapy, it's best to talk to your doctor about next steps. Menopause can come with symptoms beyond hot flashes. If you're experiencing unusual symptoms, whether or not you suspect they're due to menopause, talk to your healthcare provider. They should be able to help guide you on next steps. You Might Also Like Can Apple Cider Vinegar Lead to Weight Loss? Bobbi Brown Shares Her Top Face-Transforming Makeup Tips for Women Over 50
