Menopause

Menopause: A Normal Stage with Many Faces

Menopause is called the point after twelve consecutive months without a period. In Greece it usually appears around forty-eight to fifty-two years, while the preceding years, perimenopause, are often the ones with the most intense and irregular symptoms. The cause is not a disease but the gradual decrease in the production of estrogens by the ovaries, a change that simultaneously affects thermoregulation, sleep, mood, skin and mucous membranes.

The misconception most often heard in the pharmacy is that it is a short phase with hot flashes and nothing else. In reality, the picture differs greatly from woman to woman, both in duration and intensity. Some go through these years almost unnoticed, while others need substantial support for a long time.

Most Frequently Described Symptoms

• Hot flashes and night sweats: sudden wave of heat in the face and chest, lasting a few minutes.
• Sleep disturbances: difficulty falling asleep or waking up, often associated with hot flashes.
• Mood changes: irritability, anxiety, feeling of fatigue and difficulty concentrating.
• Vaginal dryness: feeling of dryness and discomfort in the sensitive area.
• Skin and hair changes: drier skin, thinning hair, reduced elasticity.
• Urinary complaints: more frequent urination or feeling of urgency.
• Weight and fat distribution changes: especially in the abdominal area.

Where Pharmacy Products Help

With the Feeling of Dryness

Moisturizing vaginal formulations and lubricants reduce the feeling of dryness and provide comfort in daily life and contact. The options and their differences are analyzed in vaginal moisturization and in vaginal gels.

In Daily Hygiene

The mucous membrane becomes thinner, so very mild, unscented fluids are preferable. See the suitable options in cleansing and avoid unnecessary washes.

In General Support

On the shelves you will find dietary supplements that target this phase of life. Their selection is always made with the pharmacist, because the history, the other treatments and any contraindications matter more than the packaging composition.

In Skin Care

Richer textures, mild cleansing and consistent sun protection are the basics. Useful sections are the body and sun protection.

Popular Choices

The series Intermed Eva Intima Meno-Control is the most recognizable in the category, with vaginal cream in pre-filled applicators and in tablet form as a supplement. For daily comfort, the single-dose Intermed Eva Intima Moist and the Moist Long Acting version are often requested by women who describe persistent dryness. Which product suits and for how long is a conversation worth having in the pharmacy.

Daily Measures and When to See a Doctor

Dress in layers that come off easily, keep a cool bedroom and cotton fabrics, limit caffeine and alcohol in the evening and allow for regular movement, especially in resistance exercises. Adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D, pelvic floor exercises and smoking cessation are measures of substantial value in this phase. No recommendation for hormonal or other medication is given by a store page: the decision belongs exclusively to the gynecologist, after evaluating your history. Request an appointment immediately if postmenopausal bleeding appears, if symptoms seriously affect your daily life or if the period stops before forty.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do hot flashes last?

It varies greatly. In many women they subside within two to three years, while in others they continue longer. Recording the frequency helps the doctor assess the picture.

Can I get pregnant in perimenopause?

Yes, as long as there are still irregular periods. The need for contraception and when to stop is discussed with your gynecologist.

Do supplements solve hot flashes?

They are not a cure and the response varies from person to person. They are taken as a supportive measure, always after discussion with the pharmacist or doctor.

Why do I have urination discomfort while I don't have an infection?

Changes in the mucous membranes of the area give a similar feeling. Because the symptoms resemble a urinary infection, the distinction is made with an examination and not by guesswork.

Do I need to change my cosmetics?

Usually richer textures and milder cleansers are needed, as the skin retains less moisture. Sun protection remains a daily need.

The information on the page is informative and concerns cosmetics, dietary supplements and personal care products. It does not replace the diagnosis, treatment or advice of a gynecologist and pharmacist. Any decision regarding medication in menopause is made by your doctor.