Signs of Menopause

The changes that come with menopause can be uncomfortable, to say the least. And while hot flashes are one of the most talked about symptoms, women experience a variety of discomforts. “This drop in estrogen levels is felt by the entire body, including the brain, heart, skin and reproductive organs like the vagina, uterus and ovaries,” said Kyle Graham, M.D., an OBGYN and medical director at Obstetrics and Gynecology of San Jose, part of Pediatrix® Medical Group. Estrogen plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy levels of bacteria in the vagina, which, in return, keep the surrounding skin healthy and moisturized, explained Dr. Graham. “With all of these changes, the skin of the vaginal area becomes irritated, painful and even inflamed,” he said, adding that some people may notice their vagina appears redder or pinker than usual.

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