Ways to Deal with the Symptoms of Menopause

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You could argue that the physical and mental changes that occur during menopause aren’t really “symptoms.” The term is usually associated with a disease, which menopause is not. Also, it is often hard to say which changes are a direct result of a drop in hormone levels and which are natural consequences of aging.

Hot flashes and vaginal dryness are the two symptoms most frequently linked with menopause. Other symptoms associated with menopause include sleep disturbances, urinary complaints, sexual dysfunction, mood changes, and quality of life.

HOT FLASHES

Hot flashes can be extremely troubling for the 15% of women who have the most severe form. Women who have had surgical menopause or those who are taking tamoxifen to prevent breast cancer are often in this unfortunate group.

Some women say they feel agitated or unsettled right before a hot flash occurs. Women experience hot flashes differently. Some feel warm; others complain of burning up. A lot of women feel chills afterward. Hot flashes that occur during sleep, called night sweats, may disrupt sleep, causing fatigue and mood changes.

TREATING HOT FLASHES

Some possible triggers of hot flashes are hot beverages, spicy food, warm air temperatures, stressful situations, alcohol, caffeine, and some medications. If you can identify your own triggers, you may be able to avoid some hot flashes.

Go to bed with a frozen cold pack under your pillow, and turn the pillow over when you wake up. Keep a change of nightclothes next to your bed so that you can change easily if you wake up soaked.

VAGINAL CHANGES

Decreased estrogen causes the vaginal lining to thin and vaginal secretions to diminish. The vagina also becomes shorter and narrower. The result often is dryness and irritation, which can make sexual intercourse unpleasant.

TREATING VAGINAL CHANGES

A simple vaginal lubricant such as Astroglide or Silk-E may help treat vaginal dryness. A vaginal moisturizer such as Replens may also be helpful. Estrogen treatments applied directly to the vagina in the form of creams, rings, and tablets are quite effective. Also, experts say regular sexual stimulation can help keep the vagina healthy by maintaining its elasticity.

One concern for perimenopausal and postmenopausal women is knowing whether irregular uterine bleeding is normal. Most women notice normal changes in their cycle as they approach menopause.

Consult your physician if any of the following situations occur:

You have a few periods that last three days longer than usual.
You have a few menstrual cycles that are shorter than 21 days.
You bleed after intercourse.
You have heavy monthly bleeding (soaking a sanitary product every hour for more than a day).
You have spotting (bleeding between periods).
You have bleeding that occurs outside the normal pattern associated with hormone use.

Some other symptoms that you may experience:

Dry Skin and Hair
Urinary inconsistency
Weight loss or gain
Low Sexual Drive
Mood swings

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Are you tired of worrying about staining your favourite pants when on your period? Or are shifting pads and leaking tampons not allowing you to get a comfortable night’s sleep? Or, perhaps you want to switch to a more environment-friendly and sustainable option, unlike other disposable menstrual products? If you answered yes to any of those above questions, then there are only two words we’d like to say to you: Period Underwear. Yes! Period underwear is the new rage in town – and we must admit, deservedly so.

Now, we understand you’ll have some questions and even some hesitation towards period panties – this is why this article is a must-read. For today, we’ll be diving deep into the world of period underwear and answer all your questions on how they work, how safe and comfortable they are, and ultimately, how reliable.

What Is Period Underwear?

First and foremost, period underwear is not the old granny underwear or nappies from ancient times. In fact, period underwear is much more advanced than that. These are undergarments that are intended for you to wear during your menstrual cycle but minus the pads/ tampons/ cups. They come with extra layers and high-tech fabrics in the crotch area that absorb the menstrual flow and prevent leaks. However, some women tend to prefer a combination of period underwear with their regular menstrual products on days when they experience a heavier flow. But if you have a lighter flow, a period panty can be your only go-to!

How Do They Work?

Typically, period panties are composed of multiple layers, each designed for a specific purpose. These layers and special fabrics work together to wick away moisture from the skin and keep you comfortable, absorb the flow, and finally, prevent any leaks. Making a sudden switch from your regular menstrual product to period underwear can sound risky. Thus, you can always give these panties a trial shot on your lighter flow days or combine them with your pads or tampons. Plus, did we mention that they look and feel like regular underwear? Yes, they are designed in such a way that no one will notice you’re wearing them!

How Long Can One Wear Them For?

Usually, period underwear can be worn for up to twelve hours at a stretch, after which you must change them. Although, this can vary depending on the style of underwear you’ve chosen and your flow. Once the underwear has absorbed about two tampons’ worth of fluid, it’d be a good time to change. You can wash them after – don’t worry, they are easy to wash! And, if you take good care, the underwear can last you for two years and more, making them a highly sustainable and economically viable option.

How Do I Wash Them?

Washing period underwear is pretty much like all your other clothes. Hard to believe? But, it’s true! First, rinse them in cold water till you see clear water. Then, toss them into your washing machine on a delicate cycle with cold water. Remember NOT to add any fabric softener or bleach because that can harm the natural fibres and fabric of the underwear. Let them dry, and voila! They are ready to use again! Usually, these panties can take 24 to 48 hours to dry, so ensure you have a pair or two more for a smooth, mess-free cycle.

Why Make The Switch?

Not only is period underwear safer and more comfortable compared to other menstrual hygiene products, but they are also the need of the hour for the environment. You see, the one-time disposable pads and tampons we’ve been using have had quite an adverse impact on nature. They are filling up oceans and landfills and are highly unsustainable. On the other hand, period panties last longer, generate reduced waste, and are much better for the environment and our planet. Need we say more?

We hope this article has helped answer all the queries that you may have had about period underwear. They are reusable, great for nature, and far more comfortable than a sanitary napkin. Find one that is the right fit for you and suitable for your flow, and you are all set. Here’s a tip: owing to the pandemic, since most of us are currently at home, now would be a good time to give these magic panties a shot. We bet the convenience and comfort will eventually convince you to make them your sole go-to for all periods to come!