Itchiness

Causes

Hormonal changes: The skin’s hydration and itching can be affected by fluctuating hormone levels, particularly a drop in oestrogen. The suppleness and moisture-retaining properties of the skin are preserved by oestrogen. During menopause, oestrogen levels fall, which may cause the skin to dry out and become itchier.

Skin dryness: The loss of oil production during menopause might result in skin being drier. Itchy and irritated skin is more likely to be dry. The menopause can cause dry skin due to a number of factors, including ageing, environmental factors, and hereditary susceptibility.

Vulvovaginal atrophy: Vulvovaginal atrophy is a disorder marked by the thinning, dryness, and inflammation of the vaginal walls as a result of low oestrogen levels. It could make your vagina itchy and uncomfortable.

Skin issues: Pre-existing skin diseases like eczema, psoriasis, or dermatitis may become more itchy during menopause. These inflammatory disorders can be brought on or made worse by the hormonal changes that occur during menopause.

Stress and anxiety: Menopause is a significant life shift that may be accompanied by more stress and worry. Itching may worsen or become more obvious under stress.

Allergic reactions: Menopausal women may notice an increase in sensitivity to particular chemicals, such as clothing, laundry detergents, personal care items, or topical treatments, or they may develop new sensitivities. Itchiness and skin irritation can be brought on by allergic responses.

Treatment options

Hormonal Changes

• Hormone replacement therapy (HRT): Oestrogen treatment can lessen itching and increase skin hydration. However, choosing to pursue HRT should be done so after carefully weighing the benefits and hazards and with the help of your GP or menopause specialist.
• Moisturisers: The use of moisturisers can help soothe dry skin and lessen itching. Look for hypoallergenic, fragrance-free moisturisers and regularly apply them to your skin, especially after bathing.

Dry skin

• Application of moisturisers: Use products designed especially for dry skin. hyaluronic acid, glycerin, and ceramides are examples of substances that help retain moisture.
• Hydration: Drink a lot of water to stay hydrated; doing so will assist your skin’s general moisture levels.
• Avoid hot showers: The natural oils in your skin can be stripped away by hot water, which will make your skin even drier. Instead, only take a short shower or bath, and use lukewarm water.

Vulvovaginal atrophy

• Vaginal moisturisers: These products are available over-the-counter and can help relieve dryness and itching. Regular application of these moisturisers helps to keep the vaginal area moist.
• Vaginal lubricants: During sexual intercourse, water-based or silicone-based lubricants can be used to lessen friction and pain brought on by vaginal dryness.
• Topical oestrogen therapies:  such as vaginal creams, rings, or tablets.

Allergic reactions

• Identify and avoid triggers: If you believe that the itching is being brought on by an allergic reaction, attempt to find and stay away from the irritants or substances that cause the allergic reaction. Changing personal care items, detergents, or materials may be required.
• Antihistamines: Over-the-counter antihistamine drugs can help lessen allergy-related itching. To be sure a drug is right for you, you should speak with a healthcare practitioner before taking it.

Skin conditions

• Obtain dermatological advice: Consult a dermatologist for advice if you have pre-existing skin issues that are making you itchy. To suit your situation, they can offer particular therapies or medicines.
• Topical drugs: A dermatologist may recommend topical corticosteroids, immunomodulators, or other drugs to treat the itching and inflammation, depending on the particular dermatological problem.