Menopause’s Sneaky Side

Over the last few weeks I’ve been talking about the symptoms of Menopause and you’d recognise the headline acts: hot flushes, night sweats, maybe a mood swing or two.
But wait there’s more!

There’s a whole supporting cast of sneaky symptoms that many have no clue are potentially tied into their menopause journey— and these little buggers can throw you off your game in ways you never expected.

So this week I thought I’d shine a light on them. That way you know you’re not losing it but you may want to listen to your body and support it as it goes through the peri-menopause phase into menopause.

What is happening to my skin?

We’re told wrinkles will happen. Fine…not fine…but whatever. But no one mentions: itchy skin, sudden acne (didn’t we graduate from that in our teens?), or skin so dry it feels like you’ve swapped moisturiser for sandpaper.
That’s because oestrogen usually helps keep your skin plump, hydrated, and smooth. When levels drop, collagen production slows, and your skin basically decides to age overnight.

What it’s telling you: Your skin barrier needs extra TLC. Hydration, healthy fats, and gentle skincare matter more now than ever.

Can you hear that??

Ringing in the ears? Random whooshing noises? Can you hear that? That’s tinnitus — and yes, it can flare during menopause. Shifts in blood flow and hormone receptors in the ear can mess with your auditory system.

What it’s telling you: Your nervous system is on high alert. This is a reminder to manage stress (check out activites that will reduce stress levels like meditation, yoga, walks) and check in with your doctor if it persists.

The Dry Eye Surprise!

Suddenly your eyes feel like you’ve spent a week in the desert, even when you’re just at your desk. Oestrogen and androgen changes reduce tear production — so hello, scratchy contacts and irritated vision.

What it’s telling you: Your eyes need support. Hydration, omega-3s, and eye drops can help. It’s not just vanity — dry eyes can increase infection risk.

The Gum Whisperer

Ever noticed your gums bleeding more, or feeling sore when they never used to? Yup, that can be menopause too. Oestrogen helps maintain gum tissue, and when it dips, you may see more inflammation.

What it’s telling you: Oral health is part of menopause care. Regular dentist check-ups and upping your flossing game will save you later headaches.

The Phantom Body Odour

One day you swear you smell different. Not bad, exactly — just not the you you remember. Hormonal shifts affect sweat glands and skin bacteria, which can alter your natural scent.

What it’s telling you: Your microbiome — inside and out — is changing. It’s a nudge to focus on gut health, breathable fabrics, and hydration.

The Creeping Anxiety

You used to handle boardroom crises with a cool head. Now your heart races over small things — traffic jams, that email from your boss, your teenager forgetting their lunch again.
Anxiety can creep in because falling oestrogen and progesterone affect your brain’s calming signals.

What it’s telling you: Your nervous system needs balance. Deep breathing, yoga, strength training, and (if needed) professional support can all help recalibrate.

The Pins and Needles Game

Random tingling in your hands and feet? It’s not always circulation — sometimes it’s menopause. Falling hormones can affect nerve health and blood sugar regulation and cause that pins and needles feeling.

What it’s telling you: Keep an eye on circulation and glucose balance. If it’s persistent, check in with your doctor.

The Itch No One Talks About

And I don’t just mean skin. Vaginal itching, burning, or dryness are incredibly common but rarely discussed. It’s one of those things women silently put up with — but honestly, you don’t have to.

What it’s telling you: Your tissues need oestrogen support. Vaginal moisturisers, lubricants, and (if needed) local oestrogen can make a huge difference.

The Weird Taste Test

Some women notice changes in taste or a metallic flavour in their mouth. Hormones affect saliva production and taste bud sensitivity.

What it’s telling you: Your whole sensory system is in flux. Hydration, zinc-rich foods, and tongue-scraping can help reset things.

The Creeping Restlessness

You’re tired… but also wired. You want to sleep, but your legs won’t stop moving, or your brain won’t shut up. Restless legs and jittery nights can both sneak in during menopause.

What it’s telling you: Magnesium and iron might be low. It’s worth checking levels and supporting your sleep hygiene.

It’s a weird and wonderful time!

That’s a whistle stop tour of some of the less talked about and sneaky symptoms you may be experiencing during peri-menopause and menopause. That’s because menopause is a whole-body renovation project — and some of the changes are subtle, sneaky, and basically weird.

But here’s the good news…as you are getting to know the symptoms and to listen to your body, instead of “What’s wrong with me?”, you can now go with “Oh, I get it - here’s what I need or who I should reach out to, to get help”. As they say (whoever they are) knowledge is power and I hope these blogs give you back the power over your body and your lives.

Put the mask on you first, listen to your body, support her and thrive again!

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