When you notice changes in your body, it’s easy to question yourself, placing unnecessary blame on your shoulders. In reality, bodies change, especially female bodies, whose luteal phase makes each week a new experience. As women age, reproductive organs shift from a season of fertility to one of menopause. This natural, normal change in hormone composition sends waves of change throughout the body, which may be a surprise. Take note of changes in detail so you can give your healthcare provider a thorough answer to, “how are things?”
1. Changes in Vaginal Moisture
In the early days, you may not have paid much attention to your vaginal moisture levels. But now that things seem a bit dry, it’s all you can think about. Changes in vaginal moisture can be disruptive and painful, and even make urinary tract infections (UTIs)more likely.
If you notice less-than-typical vaginal moisture, have pain during intimacy, or feel uncomfortable during regular activities, dryness may be the issue. Your doctor may recommend a vaginal moisturizer formulated to rehydrate the delicate vaginal area. Make sure that your moisturizer is pH-balanced and fragrance-free to reduce potential irritation and imbalance in the pelvic region.
2. Hair in New Places
You might be surprised to see hair growing from places previously fuzz-free, but it happens to most women. Hormonal changes due to pregnancy, menopause, and medication can make new hair grow or cause existing hair to become darker.
Some hair growth is normal and expected, but other times, it can be a warning sign. If you notice excessive facial hair growth, it could be a symptom of polycystic ovarian syndrome or menopause. Speak with your provider about the changes you’ve noticed to determine if testing is needed.
3. Differences in Menstrual Flow
Women’s bodies can do a lot, but they are often subject to changes due to external factors. Stress, hormones, and even diet changes can shift women’s menstrual flow and frequency, and even stop it altogether.
If your typical cycle habits change, consider what else in your life has changed, too. Your body may be entering perimenopause or your body may be protecting itself from stress. Track your periods as soon as you notice changes so you can provide your doctor with specifics. Include details like the length of your period, flow rate, and consistency so they can make an informed assessment.
4. Pain During Intimacy
Sex is supposed to be fun, so when it starts to hurt, it takes a toll on your life. Not only does the act of intimacy change from one of pleasure to pain, but so does life surrounding it. Women may shy away from tender moments, recoiling at the potential advancement toward painful intercourse.
First, communicate this change with your partner so you can have an open dialogue. Without this conversation, they may begin to wonder if there’s an issue within the relationship, adding unnecessary stress to the situation. Get on the same page as you identify the cause, which could be hormonal, an infection, or a medical condition. Your provider can counsel you on next steps for treatment and improving vaginal moisture.
5. Shifts in Mood
The rollercoaster of hormone-driven emotions is real, even though it’s often over-dramatized in the media. Hormones greatly influence mood, and your body’s natural estrogen and progesterone levels shift as you age.
Hormonal birth control can mask the natural fluctuations of estrogen and progesterone, making it harder to recognize early hormonal changes. When women stop using hormonal birth control and transition into perimenopause, the shift in hormone levels can feel more abrupt. In many cases, mood changes are one of the earliest signs of perimenopause, which can start as early as your 30s.
If you’re postpartum, your provider will give you a questionnaire to assess your risk for depression. Answer the questions honestly and, if you notice depressive or anxious thoughts later, reach out right away. Your provider is there to help you throughout your lifetime and through every phase of reproductive health.
6. Unusual Odor or Discharge
You likely know what your body’s “normal” scents are, so when something is off, pay attention. Typical female vaginal discharge ranges from clear to milky in appearance and is most often a smooth texture. An especially different odor, color, or appearance might indicate an infection like bacterial vaginosis or a yeast infection.
Report any other body odors that seem different to you, including those driven by perspiration, which could indicate hormonal imbalances. Your diet, supplements, and stress levels can influence your body odors, too, so report your typical habits thoroughly. Changes during menopause often cause hot flashes, so you may be sweating more than normal. Here, your provider may have recommendations to make you more comfortable, like changes in clothing or using whole-body deodorant.
Nothing is Off Limits When it Comes to Your Health
Providers specializing in obstetrics and gynecology have dedicated their careers to women’s health, not just pregnancy. Your provider wants to hear from you, even if the changes you’ve noticed feel foreign or embarrassing. Consider your annual appointment your safe space to communicate concerns, ask questions, and get solutions. Prioritize your health, voice your concerns, and learn how to manage your symptoms throughout every stage of womanhood.
