Symptoms of menopause

Hot flushes are the most common symptom of menopause, affecting about 80% of women. They occur especially in late perimenopause and postmenopause. Hot flushes appear suddenly and unexpectedly, often disrupting daily life. The intensity of the symptoms varies greatly from one woman to another; for some, they are merely unpleasant, while others experience severe discomfort. But what exactly are hot flushes, why do they occur, and how can you effectively alleviate them?

For most women, the period is astonishingly reliable over many years. Month after month, bleeding starts around the same time, lasts three to five days, and occurs every 26 to 32 days—on average about 28 days. This familiar pattern is so ingrained that any change immediately catches your attention.

“My skin suddenly felt dried out – no matter how much cream I used.” Many women describe their first skin changes during menopause in similar words. What used to feel soft, elastic, and easy to care for now feels dry, thinner, or more sensitive. Some notice small cracks, itching, or a feeling of tightness – often without immediately understanding the cause. What many don’t know: the skin is one of the organs that reacts particularly strongly to hormonal changes. Estrogen, in particular, plays a central role in the health and structure of the skin. As estrogen levels drop with the onset of menopause, a new phase also begins for the skin. If your skin changes, it’s not a sign of neglect – it’s the expression of a natural process. That’s why it’s all the more important to understand what’s happening in your body, the role hormones play, and how you can actively support your skin.

Many women notice changes in their digestion at the onset of menopause: a persistent feeling of fullness, bloating, or irregular bowel movements. These symptoms often appear during perimenopause – the transition phase to menopause – or worsen during this time. This can be especially frustrating when lifestyle and eating habits haven't changed. Although digestive problems aren't the first things associated with menopause, hormonal fluctuations can significantly influence the function of your digestive system. Bloating, constipation, or a sluggish bowel aren't just coincidental; they can be the result of fundamental changes in your hormone balance – and how your body responds to them.