Menopause Struggles & Solutions: How I’m Managing the Change with Real Talk

For the past few years, I’ve been diving deep into the world of hormone imbalance, trying everything from supplements and herbal remedies to transdermal creams and natural moisturizers in an attempt to restore balance. I’ve made changes to my diet, eating hormone-friendly foods like raw pumpkin seeds and watermelon, and I stick to a consistent workout routine. I know that exercise helps with stress, and when hormones are out of whack, stress levels are usually through the roof.

But I’m not one of those women who sail through menopause without a hitch. After some research, I discovered that I’m not alone—many women are navigating the bumpy ride of menopause symptoms.

Night Sweats, Hot Flashes, and Everything in Between

It all started with night sweats. They were manageable for a while with a transdermal progesterone cream, but as time passed, things got… unpredictable. My periods started doing their own thing, leaving me in limbo each month, never quite sure if I was officially in menopause yet.

My doctor explained that once I’ve gone a full year without a period, I’d officially be in menopause. Luckily, my gynecologist is amazing—approachable and open to my desire for a more natural approach. The downside of seeking natural treatments? Many Western medicine doctors aren’t big fans of bioidentical hormones, and they’re often not covered by insurance. So, if you’re thinking of exploring alternative treatments, be prepared for some hurdles.

But here’s the deal: We shouldn’t be afraid to talk openly about what we’re going through. Menopause isn’t a topic to hide, and as women, we deserve to be open about our experiences, seek answers, and support each other.

Menopause Struggles: More Than Just Hot Flashes

Menopause has taken a toll on my body in ways I never expected—sleepless nights, hot flashes, frequent urinary tract infections (UTIs), and, perhaps most frustrating of all, vaginal dryness. These things have impacted my confidence and my relationship in ways I wasn’t prepared for. I’ve always believed in the importance of embracing our bodies, but menopause can make that really difficult when everything feels out of balance.

But here’s the thing: I refuse to let menopause steal my womanhood. Yes, it’s frustrating, but it’s also been a motivator for me to find solutions and take control of my health. That’s why I’m sharing my journey, hoping that others who feel the same way can relate, offer support, and share their own solutions.

Hot Flashes and Night Sweats: Finding Relief

Let’s talk about those hot flashes. They come at all hours, but for me, they’re especially persistent at night. The struggle to get a full night’s sleep can really put me on edge. What’s worked for me? Sleeping under a light sheet with one leg covered and the other exposed, along with a ceiling fan going full blast. That helps me manage the discomfort.

I’ve also learned to avoid common triggers, like alcohol. A glass of wine in the evening guarantees a hot flash, which often leads to dreaded night sweats.

One thing that’s made a noticeable difference is Maca Root. My gynecologist recommended it, and after doing some research on its benefits, I decided to give it a try. I mix it into my daily green shake, and it’s helped. I’m not saying it’s a miracle cure, but it’s been a solid addition to my routine.

Important Note: Always do your own research before trying any supplement. What works for me may not work for you, and it’s essential to back up your decisions with solid evidence and research.

Vaginal Dryness and Decreased Sensitivity: Reclaiming My Sexual Health

Vaginal dryness has been one of the hardest symptoms to deal with. It’s a tough subject, but I’m not going to shy away from it. This is something that affects many of us, and it’s a huge part of why menopause can feel like a full-body experience.

For me, a coconut oil and vitamin E vaginal suppository has been a game-changer. It keeps me moisturized throughout the day and night, helping me maintain a healthy sexual relationship with my husband. I also use a vulva moisturizer daily after my shower, which is soothing and helpful. My goal is to prevent vaginal atrophy—yes, this is what happens as we age, and no, I’m not going to let it happen without a fight.

Decreased sensitivity during sex is also a common symptom. After some trial and error, I tried L-arginine, an amino acid that helps increase blood flow to the genital area. Unfortunately, I learned the hard way that it can trigger cold sores. (Yikes!) After some research and a little trial and error, I switched to Lysine, which helps prevent cold sores and supports immune health.

Managing UTIs and Other Menopause Symptoms

Another frustrating menopause-related issue I’ve had to deal with is urinary tract infections. The symptoms can strike in the middle of the night, causing severe discomfort. My go-to treatments include a low-dose antibiotic (which I keep on hand just in case), OTC Cystex, a heating pad, and lots of water. I’ve also added D-Mannose to my routine, and it seems to be helping.

Thankfully, I’m pretty in tune with my body and can usually catch a UTI early before it gets out of hand. That said, I’m always vigilant about my symptoms so I can take action before things get too uncomfortable.

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Bioidenticals and Beyond

I’ve also been exploring hormone replacement therapy (HRT), specifically bioidentical hormones. These hormones are similar to those produced by our bodies and can be applied transdermally (through the skin). I’ve been using bioidenticals for a while now and have experienced significant relief from some of the most annoying menopause symptoms.

I’ve decided against taking systemic estrogen, as it can increase the risk of cancer. Instead, I’m trying a low-dose vaginal estrogen insert. It’s localized to the vaginal area, so it helps with dryness and may even reduce the incidence of UTIs. I’m still in the trial phase with this, but so far, so good. I’ll update you on my progress!

Final Thoughts: We Are Not Alone in This

Menopause can feel isolating, but it doesn’t have to be. Sharing our experiences and supporting one another is key to navigating this transition. Clinical research on menopause is still lacking, but that doesn’t mean we have to sit idly by while we wait for answers. Be your own advocate. Do your research. And above all, embrace the process—because while menopause can be tough, we can handle it.

If you’re on your own journey through menopause, I encourage you to reach out. Let’s keep the conversation going. And don’t forget, as a personal trainer and coach, I share resources for aging well through fitness and nutrition on my Instagram page—join me there for more tips!

Key Takeaways:

• Menopause brings real physical and emotional changes, but it doesn’t have to be faced alone.
• Hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and UTIs are just a few of the common symptoms.
• Solutions like maca root, bioidentical hormones, and vaginal moisturizers can provide relief.
• Be proactive in your health journey, and always consult with your doctor before trying new treatments.

Remember, we’re all in this together!

Thanks for reading, and be sure to subscribe to my blog for more updates on my menopause journey.