Hot Flashes

Hot flashes are perhaps one of the most commonly known symptoms of menopause. For some women, hot flashes are mild and unintrusive; for others, they may leave sufferers standing in front of an open freezer seeking relief. Hot flashes are characterized by a sudden sensation of heat that may occur all over the body or just in the upper torso, neck and face. This feeling may be accompanied by sweating and flushing and may last for less than a minute or up to 10 minutes, according to the National Institute on Aging. For most women, these hot flashes lessen in intensity over time.

Because hot flashes can be so intense that they become disruptive, there are treatment options that women may choose to try that will lessen this and other symptoms. Talk to your doctor if you experience serious or disruptive menopausal changes to find out what options may be available for you.

Vaginal Dryness/Painful Intercourse

When women enter menopause, their bodies produce lowered levels of estrogen and progesterone. These lowered levels may result in a decrease in the moisture that coats the vaginal walls. A related condition, vaginal atrophy, is characterized by thinning and inflammation of the vaginal walls, according to HealthLine. This condition and vaginal dryness both can lead to painful sexual intercourse. For some women, these conditions can lead to a decreased libido, which is a natural part of aging. Other women may experience an increased desire for sexual activity, while some report no changes. If this decreased desire is a result of painful intercourse, there are many treatments and options to manage this symptom.

Water-based lubricants may be beneficial during intercourse, and both over-the-counter and prescription vaginal moisturizers, estrogen creams and vaginal rings may ease painful or uncomfortable dryness.