Vaginal Bleeding and Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding

“Bleeding from your vagina after menopause is not normal.
If you have any bleeding, spotting or staining
after you reach menopause, talk to your doctor”.1

Umbrella
What may the Vaginal Bleeding and Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding Umbrella include?

Depending on the Source (DotS) this Umbrella may include:

  • Abnormal Bleeding
  • Abnormal Uterine Bleeding (AUB)
  • Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding (AVB)
  • Bleeding After Menopause
  • Dysfunctional Uterine Bleeding
  • Spotting
  • Postmenopausal Bleeding
  • Uterine Bleeding
  • Vaginal Bleeding

Definition

What is abnormal vaginal bleeding (AVB)?

Dots the definition of AVB may vary. In Vaginal Bleeding: Basics – Definition the (United States) Mayo Clinic’s definition is:

“Unusual vaginal bleeding is any vaginal blood that is different from your period. This might include small amounts of blood, also called spotting, between your periods. You might notice this on toilet tissue when you wipe. Or it could include a very heavy period. You know you have a very heavy period if blood is soaking through one or more tampons or pads every hour for more than four hours”.2

When

When is vaginal bleeding considered AVB or abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB)?

In FAQs: Abnormal Uterine Bleeding – When Is Bleeding Abnormal? the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) explain:

Vaginal Bleeding and Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding“Bleeding in any of the following situations is considered abnormal uterine bleeding:

  • Bleeding or spotting between periods
  • Bleeding or spotting after sex
  • Heavy bleeding during your period
    • Bleeding that soaks through one or more tampons or pads every hour
    • Bleeding that lasts more than 7 days
  • Menstrual cycles that are longer than 35 days or shorter than 21 days
  • “Irregular” periods in which cycle length varies by more than 7–9 days
  • Not having a period for 3 to 6 months
  • Bleeding after menopause”.3

Postmenopausal Vaginal Bleeding

Is postmenopausal vaginal bleeding normal?

No. In What Is Menopause? Perimenopause, Menopause and Postmenopause: Vaginal and Vulval Health – Postmenopausal Bleeding the (Australian) Jean Hailes for Women’s Health explain:


“Bleeding from your vagina after menopause is not normal. If you have any bleeding, spotting or staining after you reach menopause, talk to your doctor”.4

Health Care Provider

What if I think I have AVB?

If you think you have AVB, it may be in your best interest to choose to talk to your health care provider about this.

In Vagina: What’s Normal, What’s Not – What Are Signs or Symptoms of Vaginal Problems? the Mayo Clinic explain:

“Consult your health care provider if you notice:

  • A change in the color, odor or amount of vaginal discharge
  • Vaginal redness or itching
  • Vaginal bleeding between periods, after sex or after menopause
  • A mass or bulge in the vagina
  • Pain during intercourse”.5

In Postmenopausal Bleeding the NHS advise:

“See A GP If:

You have postmenopausal bleeding, even if:

  • It’s only happened once
  • There’s only a small amount of blood, spotting, or pink or brown discharge
  • You do not have any other symptoms
  • You’re not sure if it’s blood

Postmenopausal bleeding is not usually serious, but can be a sign of cancer. Cancer is easier to treat if it’s found early”.6

Who is a GP?

DotS and/or DotC (Depending on the Country) a GP may be a qualified and registered general practitioner, a medical practitioner, a medical doctor or a doctor.

Health Topics A-Z

Where may I find Health Topics A-Z related to the Vaginal Bleeding and Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding?

In Health Topics A-Z you may find:

Health Topics A-Z

Links

Where may I find Links related to Vaginal Bleeding and Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding?

Your Country may have Links similar to:

Links

This Links List to third party websites is neither comprehensive nor exhaustive. Inclusion on this Links List does not imply endorsement or recommendation. Non-inclusion on this Links List does not imply non-endorsement or non-recommendation. Third party websites are not under the control of Meno Martha International Menopause Directory. Third party websites may contain explicit medical images and/or sexual references. Please read Meno Martha International Menopause Directory’s Links Policy before proceeding to a Link. Please contact Webmaster if you experience a problem with a Link.

New or Updated

  1. Abnormal Bleeding
  2. Abnormal Uterine Bleeding In Peri- and Postmenopausal Women
  3. About the Menstrual Cycle
  4. Bleeding After Menopause Could Be A Problem. Here’s What To Know
  5. Bleeding After Menopause: A Concern?
  6. Brown Discharge: 4 Causes and What It Means
  7. Cervical Cancer
  8. Endometrial Cancer
  9. Endometrial Cancer: Early Detection, Diagnosis, and Staging – Signs and Symptoms of Endometrial Cancer
  10. FAQs: Abnormal Uterine Bleeding
  11. FAQs: Heavy Menstrual Bleeding
  12. FAQs: Perimenopausal Bleeding and Bleeding After Menopause
  13. FAQs: Vulvovaginal Health
  14. Foundationforwomenscancer.org [Foundation for Women’s Cancers, United States]
  15. Gynecologic Cancers: What Are the Symptoms?
  16. Gynecological Cancers
  17. Heavy Bleeding
  18. Perimenopausal and Postmenopausal Bleeding
  19. Periods
  20. Postmenopausal Bleeding
  21. Postmenopausal Bleeding
  22. Signs and Symptoms of Endometrial Cancer
  23. The Most Common Warning Sign of Uterine Cancer
  24. Tips for Tracking Your Bleeding
  25. Uterine Bleeding: Abnormal Uterine Bleeding
  26. Uterine Cancer Awareness
    Vaginal Bleeding and Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding
  27. Uterine/Endometrial Cancer/GTD
  28. Vagina: What’s Normal, What’s Not
  29. Vaginal Bleeding
  30. Vaginal Bleeding Between Periods
  31. Vaginal Bleeding: Basics – Causes
  32. Vaginal Bleeding: Basics – When To See A Doctor
  33. Vaginal or Uterine Bleeding
  34. Video Series-2024: Preparing for Your Menopause Health Care Visit
  35. Videos and Podcasts: Videos – Interviews: Menopause and Abnormal Bleeding
  36. Webinars: Previous – Abnormal Uterine Bleeding In Perimenopausal and Postmenopausal Women
  37. What Causes Bleeding Between Periods?
  38. You Need To Know [+ Video: Bleeding After the Menopause – An Important Message You Need To Know]
  39. Your Menstrual Cycle

Sources

Where may I find the Sources quoted?

You may find the Sources at:

Sources

  1. What Is Menopause? Perimenopause, Menopause and Postmenopause: Vaginal and Vulval Health – Postmenopausal Bleeding. Last Updated: 18 January 2024 | Last Reviewed: 19 August 2022. Jean Hailes for Women’s Health https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/health-a-z/menopause/health-after-menopause Accessed: 07 April 2024
  2. Vaginal Bleeding: Basics – Definition. 02 May 2023. Mayo Clinic https://www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/vaginal-bleeding/basics/definition/SYM-20050756 Accessed: 07 April 2024
  3. FAQs: Abnormal Uterine Bleeding – When Is Bleeding Abnormal? Last Updated: December 2021. Last Reviewed: April 2023. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists https://www.acog.org/patient-resources/faqs/gynecologic-problems/abnormal-uterine-bleeding Accessed: 07 April 2024
  4. What Is Menopause? Perimenopause, Menopause and Postmenopause: Vaginal and Vulval Health – Postmenopausal Bleeding. Last Updated: 18 January 2024 | Last Reviewed: 19 August 2022. Jean Hailes for Women’s Health https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/health-a-z/menopause/health-after-menopause Accessed: 07 April 2024
  5. Vagina: What’s Typical, What’s Not – What Are Signs or Symptoms of Vaginal Problems? 06 December 2022. Mayo Clinic https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/womens-health/in-depth/vagina/art-20046562 Accessed: 07 April 2024
  6. Postmenopausal Bleeding. Page Last Reviewed: 22 May 2023. NHS https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/post-menopausal-bleeding/ Accessed: 07 April 2024
Topic Last Updated: 07 April 2024 – Topic Last Reviewed: 07 April 2024

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Menopause Societies

You may find the name of and information about
your Country’s menopause society
in the International Menopause Society’s…Meno Martha

Umbrella
What may the Menopause Societies Umbrella include?

Depending on the Source (DotS) this Umbrella may include:

  • Medical Associations
  • Medical Menopause Associations
  • Menopause Federations
  • Menopause Societies
  • Menopause and Andropause Societies
  • Menopause and Climacteric Societies
  • Menopause and Osteoporosis Societies
  • Societies for Menopause and Women’s Health
  • Societies of Menopause

Menopause Societies

Where may I find the name of and information about my Country’s menopause society?

You may find the name of and information about your Country’s menopause society in:

Menopause Societies
Menopause Societies

  1. Council of Affiliated Menopause Societies (CAMS): CAMS Microsites
  2. European Menopause and Andropause Society: About EMAS – Affiliated Associations

Health Topics A-Z

Where may I find Health Topics A-Z related to Menopause Societies?

In Health Topics A-Z you may find:

Health Topics A-Z

Links

Where may I find Links related to Menopause Societies?

Your Country may have Links similar to:

Links

This Links List to third party websites is neither comprehensive nor exhaustive. Inclusion on this Links List does not imply endorsement or recommendation. Non-inclusion on this Links List does not imply non-endorsement or non-recommendation. Third party websites are not under the control of Meno Martha International Menopause Directory. Third party websites may contain explicit medical images and/or sexual references. Please read Meno Martha International Menopause Directory’s Links Policy before proceeding to a Link. Please contact Webmaster if you experience a problem with a Link.

  1. Australasian Menopause Society
  2. British Menopause Society
  3. Council of Affiliated Menopause Societies (CAMS)
  4. Council of Affiliated Menopause Societies (CAMS): CAMS Microsites
  5. European Menopause and Andropause Society
  6. European Menopause and Andropause Society: About EMAS – Affiliated Associations
  7. International Menopause Society
  8. Menopause Society [formerly The North American Menopause Society]
  9. Menopause Society [formerly The North American Menopause Society]: For Women
  10. Women’s Health Concern [Patient Arm of the British Menopause Society]

Topic Last Updated: 07 April 2024 – Topic Last Reviewed: 07 April 2024
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World Menopause Day

“World Menopause Day is held every year on the 18th October. The purpose of the day is to raise awareness of the menopause and the support options available for…”.1

Umbrella
What may the World Menopause Day Umbrella include?

Depending on the Source (DotS) this umbrella may include:

  • World Menopause Day
  • World Menopause Month

World Menopause Day

When and what is World Menopause Day (WMD)?

In World Menopause Day the International Menopause Society (IMS) explain:

“World Menopause Day is held every year on the 18th October. The purpose of the day is to raise awareness of the menopause and the support options available for improving health and wellbeing”.2

World Menopause Month

What is World Menopause Month?

The IMS note:

“Since it is not always possible for local societies to arrange activities for this specific day, the IMS has now designated October as World Menopause Month. Local societies can also collaborate with other organizations working in the field of adult women’s health, such as societies for osteoporosis and breast cancer, to organize joint events. World Menopause Month can also be a call to implement policies that support research and treatment in the area of menopausal health”.3

World Menopause Day 2024

What is the theme for WMD 2024?

The theme for WMD is usually announced by the IMS closer to World Menopause Month which is held in October.

World Menopause Day 2023

What was the theme for WMD 2023?

In World Menopause Day the IMS announced:

“The theme for World Menopause Day 2023 is Cardiovascular Disease”.4

World Menopause Day 2022

What was the theme for WMD 2022?

The theme for WMD 2022 was Cognition and Mood.

World Menopause Day 2021

What was the theme for WMD 2021?

The theme for WMD 2021 was Bone Health.

World Menopause Day 2020

What was the theme for WMD 2020?

The theme for WMD 2020 was Premature Ovarian Insufficiency (POI).

World Menopause Day 2019

What was the theme for WMD 2019?

The theme for WMD 2019 was Testosterone for Women At Midlife.

World Menopause Day 2018

What was the theme for WMD 2018?

The theme for WMD 2018 was Sexual Wellbeing After Menopause.

Health Topics A-Z

Where may I find Health Topics A-Z related to World Menopause Day?

In Health Topics A-Z you may find:

Health Topics A-Z

Links

Where may I find Links related to World Menopause Day?

Your Country may have Links similar to:

Links

This Links List to third party websites is neither comprehensive nor exhaustive. Inclusion on this Links List does not imply endorsement or recommendation. Non-inclusion on this Links List does not imply non-endorsement or non-recommendation. Third party websites are not under the control of Meno Martha International Menopause Directory. Third party websites may contain explicit medical images and/or sexual references. Please read Meno Martha International Menopause Directory’s Links Policy before proceeding to a Link. Please contact Webmaster if you experience a problem with a Link.

New or Updated

  1. International Menopause Society
  2. International Menopause Society: For Women
  3. ‘Menopause: Misinformation and Management’ World Menopause Day 2023
  4. Video Series-2023: Menopause and Heart Disease
  5. World Menopause Day
  6. World Menopause Day 2011
  7. World Menopause Day 2012
  8. World Menopause Day 2013
  9. World Menopause Day 2014
  10. World Menopause Day 2015
  11. World Menopause Day 2016
  12. World Menopause Day 2017
  13. World Menopause Day 2018
  14. World Menopause Day 2019
  15. World Menopause Day 2020
  16. World Menopause Day 2021
  17. World Menopause Day 2022
  18. World Menopause Day 2023

Sources

Where may I find the Sources quoted?

You may find the Sources quoted at:

Sources

  1. World Menopause Day. International Menopause Society https://www.imsociety.org/education/world-menopause-day/ Accessed: 06 April 2024
  2. World Menopause Day. International Menopause Society https://www.imsociety.org/education/world-menopause-day/ Accessed: 06 April 2024
  3. World Menopause Day 2014 – World Menopause Month. International Menopause Society https://www.imsociety.org/education/world-menopause-day/wmd-2014/ Accessed: 06 April 2024
  4. World Menopause Day. International Menopause Society https://www.imsociety.org/education/world-menopause-day/ Accessed: 06 April 2024
Topic Last Updated: 06 April 2024 – Topic Last Reviewed: 06 April 2024

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Men’s Health

“See a doctor for regular checkups even if you feel healthy.
This is important because some diseases
and health conditions don’t have symptoms at first”.1

Men and Women

Men’s HealthWhat are some differences in men’s and women’s health issues?Men’s Health

In What Is Women’s Health Research? the (United States) Office of Research on Women’s Health note:

“There are striking sex and gender differences in many diseases and conditions, including:

  • Autoimmune diseases
  • Cancer
  • Cardiovascular diseases
  • Depression and brain disorders
  • Diabetes
  • Infectious diseases
  • Obesity
  • Substance abuse disorders”.2

Men’s Health

What are some associations between men and their health?

In Men: Take Charge of Your Health – The Basics: Overview the (United States) MyHealthFinder explain:

“Many men need to pay more attention to their health. Compared to women, men are more likely to:

  • Smoke
  • Drink too much alcohol
  • Make unhealthy or risky choices
  • Put off regular checkups and medical care.

The good news is that you can start taking steps to improve your health today!”3

Men’s Issues

Men’s HealthWhat are some health issues unique to men?

In Men’s Health the (United States) National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health explain:

“Some health issues, such as erectile dysfunction (ED) and prostate problems, are unique to men. As many as 30 million American men have ED, and benign prostatic hyperplasia is the most common prostate problem for men older than age 50.

Other health issues—such as coronary heart disease, lung cancer, HIV infection, and Parkinson’s disease—are more common in men than women”.4

Benign Prostate Enlargement

Where may I find Links related to Benign Prostate Enlargement?

Your Country may have Links similar to:

Benign Prostate Enlargement

Health Care Provider

Why is it important for men to see a doctor for regular checkups even if they feel healthy?Men’s Health

In Men: Take Charge of Your Health – The Basics: Overview – How Can I Take Charge of My Health? the (United States) MyHealthFinder elaborate on:

“See a doctor for regular checkups even if you feel healthy. This is important because some diseases and health conditions don’t have symptoms at first. Plus, seeing a doctor will give you a chance to learn more about your health.

Here are some more things you can do to take care of your health:

  • Eat healthy and get active
  • If you drink alcohol, drink only in moderation
  • Quit smoking
  • Know your family’s health history
  • Get screening tests to check for health problems before you have symptoms
  • Make sure you’re up to date on your vaccines (shots)”.5

Health Topics A-Z

Where may I find Health Topics A-Z related to Men’s Health?

In Health Topics A-Z you may find:

Health Topics A-Z

International Men’s Day 2023

Where may I find information about International Men’s Day, November 19?

Your Country may have Links similar to:

International Men’s Day 2023

Men’s Health Month 2023

Where may I find information about Men’s Health Month 2023 in June?

Your Country may have Links similar to:

International Men’s Month 2023

Men’s Health Week 2023

Where may I find information about Men’s Health Week 2023, June 12-18?

Your Country may have Links similar to:

International Men’s Week 2023

Link

Where may I find Links related to Men’s Health?

Your Country may have Links similar to:

Links

This Links List to third party websites is neither comprehensive nor exhaustive. Inclusion on this Links List does not imply endorsement or recommendation. Non-inclusion on this Links List does not imply non-endorsement or non-recommendation. Third party websites are not under the control of Meno Martha International Menopause Directory. Third party websites may contain explicit medical images and/or sexual references. Please read Meno Martha International Menopause Directory’s Links Policy before proceeding to a Link. Please contact Webmaster if you experience a problem with a Link.

New or Updated

  1. 5 Steps To Mental Wellbeing
  2. Alcohol Use and Cancer
  3. Alcohol and Stress
  4. Australian Men’s Health Forum
  5. Benign Prostate Enlargement
  6. Benign Prostate Enlargement: Symptoms
  7. Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
  8. Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)
  9. ‘Blue Balls’: Facts and Fiction
  10. Canadian Men’s Health Foundation
  11. Cancer and Men
  12. Consumer Health: Breast Cancer In Men
  13. Consumer Health: Do You Know the Symptoms of Prostate Cancer?
  14. Consumer Health: Men’s Health and Living A Longer, Healthier Life
  15. Depression [+ Video Courtesy: Mayo Clinic News Network]
  16. Diabetes and Men
  17. Dietary Supplements for Erectile Dysfunction: A Natural Treatment for ED? [Erectile Dysfunction]
  18. Domestic Violence Against Men: Recognize Domestic Violence Against Men
  19. EMAS Position Statement: Testosterone Replacement Therapy In Older Men
  20. Erectile Dysfunction
  21. Erectile Dysfunction and Diabetes: Take Control Today
  22. Erectile Dysfunction: Nonoral Treatments
  23. February Is American Heart Month
  24. Gay and Bisexual Men’s Health
  25. Getting Help for Mental Health
  26. Health Checkup
  27. Health Screenings for Men Ages 40 To 64
  28. Health Screenings for Men Over Age 65
  29. How To Choose the Best Mental Health App for You
  30. Hypogonadism In Men
  31. International Men’s Day
  32. International Men’s Day: Healthy Men. Healthy World! [Australia]
  33. International Men’s Day: Zero Male Suicide
  34. International Men’s Day UK [United Kingdom]
  35. Is Sex Exercise? And Is It Hard on the Heart?
  36. Is There Blood In Your Urine? What Men Need To Know
  37. Later Years (Around 50 Years and Over): Menopause and Postmenopause Health – Supporting Someone Through Menopause [+ Video: Men Don’t Need To Know About Menopause]
  38. Low Testosterone Treatments: What You Need To Know
  39. Male Menopause: Myth or Reality?
  40. Mayo Clinic Minute: Dermatologist Discusses Male-Pattern Baldness [+ Video]
  41. Mayo Clinic Minute: How Low Testosterone Can Affect Men’s Health [+ Video Courtesy: Mayo Clinic News Network]
  42. Mayo Clinic Minute: How To Have A Productive Visit With Your Health Care Professional [+ Video]
  43. Mayo Clinic Minute: Men Can Get Breast Cancer [+ Video]
  44. Mayo Clinic Minute: Men Need To Take Melanoma Seriously [+ Video Courtesy: Mayo Clinic News Network]
  45. Mayo Clinic Minute: Osteoporosis Affects Men, Too [+ Video]
  46. Mayo Clinic Minute: Prescribing Nature for Mental, Physical Health [+ Video]
  47. Mayo Clinic Minute: Signs There Is A Problem With Your Prostate [+ Video Courtesy: Mayo Clinic News Network]
  48. Mayo Clinic Q and A: Pay Attention To Symptoms for Good Men’s Health
  49. Mayo Clinic Q&A Podcast: Tips for Living Younger, Longer By Preventing Disease [+ Video Courtesy: Mayo Clinic News Network]
  50. Men Can Be Victims of Abuse, Too
  51. Men [Topics]
  52. Men and Depression
  53. Men and Mental Health
  54. Men: Take Charge of Your Health
  55. Menshealthforum.org.uk [Men’s Health Forum, United Kingdom]
  56. Menshealthfoundation.ca [Canadian Men’s Health Foundation]
  57. Men’s Conditions [Male Incontinence]
  58. Men’s Health
  59. Men’s Health
  60. Men’s Health
  61. Men’s Health Check: The First Online Health Awareness Tool for Men
  62. Men’s Health Month [June, United States]
  63. Men’s Health Network [United States]
  64. Men’s Health Week Te Wiki Hauora Tāne [New Zealand]
  65. Men’s Health Week [Australia]
  66. Men’s Health Week [United Kingdom]
  67. Men’s Health Week [United States]
  68. Men’s Health: In-Depth – Belly Fat In Men: Why Weight Loss Matters
  69. Mpox
  70. Mpox (Monkeypox)
  71. Movember [Australia]
  72. Movember [United Kingdom]
  73. Movember [United States]
  74. Movember [Worldwide]
  75. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health: Herbs At A Glance
  76. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health: How Safe Is This Product or Practice?
  77. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health: Men’s Health
  78. Pelvic Floor Issues Aren’t Just A Woman’s Health Condition, Kegels Can Work for Men, Too
  79. Physical Exams for Men: What To Expect
  80. Prostate Cancer Awareness
  81. Prostate Cancer: Screening and Treatment [+ Video]
  82. Prostate Diseases
  83. R U OK? Day [14 September 2023, Australia]
  84. Science In 5: Episode #111 – Sun and Skin Cancer
  85. Science In 5: Episode #113 – Obesity
  86. Sexual Health: Expert Answers – Is Loss of Sex Drive Normal As A Man Gets Older?
  87. Sexual Health: In-Depth – Testosterone Therapy: Potential Risks and Benefits As You Age
  88. Should You Take A PSA Test for Prostate Cancer?
  89. Sildenafil [Viagra]
  90. Smokefreemen.com [SmokefreeMEN, Canada]
  91. Snoring
  92. Taking Care of Your Mental Health
  93. Telehealth Sites Promise Cure for ‘Male Menopause’ Despite FDA Ban on Off-Label Ads
  94. Top 4 Tips To Prevent Chronic Diseases
  95. Treating Sleep Apnea Made Easier: Upper Airway Stimulation Therapy
  96. Treatment Options for Men With Urinary Leakage
  97. Understanding Male Depression
  98. What Can (and Can’t) Cause Low Testosterone
  99. What Does It Mean To Have An Enlarged Prostate? [+ Video Courtesy: Mayo Clinic News Network. Name Super/CG: Scott Cheney, M.D./Urology/Mayo Clinic]

Sources

Where may I find the Sources quoted?

You may find the Sources quoted at:

Sources

  1. Men: Take Charge of Your Health – The Basics: Overview – How Can I Take Charge of My Health? Content Last Updated: 16 February 2024. MyHealthFinder https://health.gov/myhealthfinder/topics/doctor-visits/regular-checkups/men-take-charge-your-health Accessed: 06 April 2024
  2. What Is Women’s Health Research? Office of Research on Women’s Health https://orwh.od.nih.gov/research/funded-research-and-programs/what-womens-health-research Accessed: 06 April 2024
  3. Men: Take Charge of Your Health – The Basics: Overview. Content Last Updated: 16 February 2024. MyHealthFinder https://health.gov/myhealthfinder/topics/doctor-visits/regular-checkups/men-take-charge-your-health Accessed: 06 April 2024
  4. Men’s Health. Last Updated: June 2019. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health https://www.nccih.nih.gov/health/mens-health Accessed: 06 April 2024
  5. Men: Take Charge of Your Health – The Basics: Overview – How Can I Take Charge of My Health? Content Last Updated: 16 February 2024. MyHealthFinder https://health.gov/myhealthfinder/topics/doctor-visits/regular-checkups/men-take-charge-your-health Accessed: 06 April 2024
Topic Last Updated: 06 April 2024 – Topic Last Reviewed: 06 April 2024

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Vulva

“Each woman’s vulva is unique in size, shape, colour and appearance. It’s normal for the left and right sides of the vulva to be different in shape and size, especially the…”.1

Umbrella
What may the Vulva Umbrella include?

Depending on the Source (DotS) this Umbrella may include:

  • Genitals
  • Vulva/Vulval/Vulvar Discomfort/Pain
  • Vulva/Vulval/Vulvar Skin Conditions
  • Vulvovaginal Discomfort/Pain
  • “Down Below/There”
  • “Feminine Pain”
  • “Lady Parts”
  • “Private Parts”
  • “Privates”
  • “Women’s Bits”

Vulva and Vagina

What is the difference between the vulva and the vagina?

In Vulva and Vagina: What Is the Difference Between Your Vulva and Vagina? [+ Image] the JH note:

“Some people think the vulva is the vagina, but they are different. Your vulva is the external part of the female genitals that you can see. Your vagina is inside your body. It extends from your vulva to the start of your uterus. It’s where your period flows down from the uterus, where you can have sexual intercourse (or other types of penetration) and where babies pass through during childbirth”.2

Vulva

What are parts of the vulva?

In Vulva and Vagina: What Is the Difference Between Your Vulva and Vagina? [+ Image] the JH explain:

“Your vulva includes:

  • the area covered with pubic hair (mons pubis)
  • the outer lips, which are covered with pubic hair (labia majora)
  • the inner lips, which are not covered with pubic hair (labia minora)
  • the clitoris and its hood
  • the area around your vaginal and urinary openings (vestibule)
  • the urinary opening (where wee comes out)
  • the vaginal opening
  • the area of skin between your vagina and anus (perineum)”.3

Different Differences

Are vulva one-size-fits-all?

Vulva are different. In Vulva and Vagina: What’s Normal? Appearance the JH elaborate on:


Vulva“Each woman’s vulva is unique in size, shape, colour and appearance. It’s normal for the left and right sides of the vulva to be different in shape and size, especially the labia minora. Many images you see online are heavily edited to make the vulva look symmetrical and childlike”.4

In What’s Normal: What Is Normal Vulval & Vaginal Anatomy? the (Australian) Caredownthere.com.au elaborate on:

“The vulva area is one of the most variable parts of the body, with more normal variations than noses! The range of “normal appearances” is so wide that even your family doctor may not be sure about whether you are normal “down there”. So there have always been some women who worry about how their vulvas look. To make matters worse, the internet has allowed the fashionistas who make us feel abnormal about our weight and breast size, to also make us feel abnormal about our vulvas. Is nothing sacred?

If everything is working well down there, then it must be normal! So try not to worry about your vulval size or shape: if it works for you, who cares what anyone else thinks?”5

Vulval Problems

Can vulval problems be skin problems?

In Essential Information: Some Facts About the Vulva – Where Do Vulval Problems Belong Medically? [+ Image] Caredownthere.com explain:

“The vulva is part of the skin and most of the things that go wrong there are skin conditions that happen on other parts of the skin. This includes common skin problems like dermatitis, psoriasis and allergic reactions. Some of the skin conditions that involve the vulva are not common on other parts of the skin, and this includes a condition called lichen sclerosus”.6

Female Genital Mutilation

What is female genital mutilation (FGM)?

In International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation, 6 February: Ending Female Genital Mutilation By 2030 the United Nations’ definition is:

“Female genital mutilation (FGM) comprises all procedures that involve altering or injuring the female genitalia for non-medical reasons and is recognized internationally as a violation of the human rights, the health and the integrity of girls and women”.7

In Female Genital Mutilation (FGM): Overview the (United Kingdom) NHS explain:

“Female genital mutilation (FGM) is a procedure where the female genitals are deliberately cut, injured or changed, but there’s no medical reason for this to be done.

It’s also known as female circumcision or cutting, and by other terms, such as Sunna, gudniin, halalays, tahur, megrez and khitan, among others”.8

How common is FGM?

In Female Genital Mutilation: How Prevalent Is FGM? UNICEF note:

“While the exact number of girls and women to have undergone FGM worldwide remains unknown, at least 230 million girls and women from 31 countries across three continents have been subjected to the practice”.9

In Female Genital Mutilation: Who Is At Risk?, dated 05 February 2024, the World Health Organization also note:

“FGM is mostly carried out on young girls between infancy and adolescence, and occasionally on adult women. According to available data from 30 countries where FGM is practiced in the western, eastern, and north-eastern regions of Africa, and some countries in the Middle East and Asia, more than 200 million girls and women alive today have been subjected to the practice with more than 3 million girls estimated to be at risk of FGM annually. FGM is therefore of global concern”.10

Mirror, Mirror

How can women detect any changes in the appearance of their vulva?

The JH explain:

“It’s a good idea to see what your vulva looks like. You can use a mirror to see what is normal for you. This will make it easier to detect any changes in appearance, for example, changes in colour or skin. The Labia Library is a great online resource that shows a range of ‘normal’ photos of labia”.11

Labia Library

What is the Labia Library about?

In the Labia Library the (Australian) Women’s Health Victoria elaborate on:

“The Labia Library is about showing you that, just like any other part of the body, labia come in all shapes and sizes. They’re also really important in sex and they keep your vagina healthy.

Women’s Health Victoria has developed the Labia Library to bust a few common myths about how normal labia look. There’s also a photo gallery that shows you just how unique everyone’s labia are”.12

Vulval Clinics

What are specialist vulval clinics?

DotC (Depending on the Country) there may be specialist vulval clinics with gynecologists, dermatologists, physiotherapists and other staff specializing in vulval conditions. These clinics may be called:

Vulval Clinics

  • Genito-Urinary Medicine Clinics
  • Multidisciplinary Vulva/Vulval/Vulvar Clinics
  • Vulva/Vulval/Vulvar Clinics
  • Vulvovaginal Clinics

Health Care Provider

What if I am worried about something down there?

If you are worried about something – anything – down there, it may be in your best interest to choose to talk to your health care provider about this. The JH explain:

“If you are worried about the smell, or have symptoms such as itching, burning, irritation, soreness, painful sex or pain when you wee, see your doctor”.13

Health Topics A-Z

Where may I find Health Topics A-Z related to Vulva?

In Health Topics A-Z you may find:

Health Topics A-Z

Links

Where may I find Links related to Vulva?

Your Country may have Links similar to:

Links

This Links List to third party websites is neither comprehensive nor exhaustive. Inclusion on this Links List does not imply endorsement or recommendation. Non-inclusion on this Links List does not imply non-endorsement or non-recommendation. Third party websites are not under the control of Meno Martha International Menopause Directory. Third party websites may contain explicit medical images and/or sexual references. Please read Meno Martha International Menopause Directory’s Links Policy before proceeding to a Link. Please contact Webmaster if you experience a problem with a Link.

New or Updated

  1. 9 Tips To Keep Your Vagina and Vulva Healthy
  2. Australian and New Zealand Vulvovaginal Society: Patient Information
  3. BMS TV: Urogenital Atrophy
  4. British Association of Dermatologists: Patient Information Leaflets
  5. British Society for the Study of Vulval Disease: Patient [United Kingdom]
  6. CareDownThere
  7. Dr. Stephanie Faubion – Genitourinary  Syndrome of Menopause
  8. Endometrial Safety of Low-Dose Vaginal Estrogens
  9. Endometrial Safety of Low-Dose Vaginal Estrogens [Video]
  10. Essential Information: Caring for Your Skin Down There
  11. Essential Information: See Your Doctor If
  12. Essential Information: Some Facts About the Vulva [+ Image]
  13. Everything You Need To Know About Your Labia
  14. FAQS: Disorders of the Vulva: Common Causes of Vulvar Pain, Burning, and Itching
  15. FAQs: Vaginal Rejuvenation, Labiaplasty, and Other Female Genital Cosmetic Surgery
  16. FAQs: Vulvovaginal Health
  17. Female Genital Mutilation
  18. Female Genital Mutilation
  19. Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) [+ Videos]
  20. Female Genital Mutilation (FGM): Getting Help and Support [United Kingdom]
  21. Female Genital Mutilation or Cutting
  22. Forward [Foundation for Women’s Health Research and Development, United Kingdom]
  23. Genital Herpes [Multiply Languages]
  24. Glossary
  25. Gynaecological Cancers – Vaginal and Vulval
  26. Hope for Patients With Pudendal Neuralgia and Pudendal Nerve Entrapment
  27. International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation, 6 February: 2024 Theme: Her Voice. Her Future
  28. International Society for Sexual Medicine: Public
  29. International Society for Sexual Medicine: Sexual Health Topics
  30. International Society for the Study of Vulvovaginal Diseases: Patient Handouts
  31. International Society for the Study of Women’s Sexual Health: Find A Provider
  32. Labia Library
  33. Lichen Sclerosus
  34. Lsvcukawareness.co.uk [Lichen Sclerosus & Vulval Cancer UK Awareness]
  35. Lubricant Alternatives: What To Use and What To Avoid
  36. Managing Common Vulval Skin Conditions
  37. Mayo Clinic Minute: Reducing the Risks of Sexually Transmitted Infections [+ Video Courtesy: Mayo Clinic News Network]
  38. Medical Advice: Genital Herpes
  39. #LetsDiscuss Female Genital MutilationMedical Advice: Genital Warts
  40. Medical Advice: Lichen Sclerosus
  41. Medical Advice: Medical Exams
  42. Medical Advice: Psoriasis
  43. Medical Advice: Treatment
  44. Medical Advice: Vulval Cancer
  45. Medical Advice: Vulval Eczema
  46. Medical Advice: Vulval Pain
  47. Menopause, Skin and Common Dermatosis. Part 3: Genital Disorders
  48. Menopause: Understanding the Changes and Finding Relief | Dr Susan Davis | The Proof Podcast EP 256
  49. Myths and Suggestions: Myths About Skin Disease and the Vulva
  50. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health: How Safe Is This Product or Practice?
  51. National Vulvodynia Association: For Patients: How NVA Can Help You
  52. Navigating Menopause: Expert Insights and Solutions | Dr Susan Davis | The Proof Podcast EP 245
  53. Patty Brisben Foundation for Women’s Sexual Health
  54. Patty Brisben Foundation for Women’s Sexual Health: Guide To Sexual Health Providers
  55. Pelvic Exam
  56. Prosalya [Prosayla is proudly supported by The International Society for the Study of Women’s Sexual Health (ISSWSH)]
  57. Pudendal Neuralgia
  58. Pudendalhope.info [Health Organization for Pudendal Education, United States]
  59. Pudendalhope.info [Health Organization for Pudendal Education, United States]: Symptoms
  60. Royal College of Obstetricians & Gynaecologists [United Kingdom]
  61. Self-Help Tips
  62. Sexual Problems and Menopause
  63. Small Clusters of Lumps on My Labia: What Are They? — Ask Dr Jean
  64. The Clitoris – A Brief History
  65. The Truth About Menopause Supplements | Dr Sarah Berry
  66. The Vulva: Irritation, Diagnosis & Treatment – Booklet
  67. Thinking About Cosmetic Surgery?
  68. Tips To Help Manage Menopause Symptoms
  69. Tips for Tracking Your Bleeding
    Tips for Tracking Your Bleeding
  70. Vaginal and Vulval Pain: Know the Different Causes and When To Seek Help
  71. Vaginal Dryness
  72. Vaginal Oestrogen
  73. Vaginal and Vulvar Cancers
  74. Vestibulodynia (Formerly Vulval Vestibulitis)
  75. Video Series-2022: Discussing Sexual Health Concerns With Your Health Care Professional
  76. Vulval Self Checks
  77. Vulvar Awareness Day [18 September 2023]
    Vulva
  78. Vulvar Awareness Campaign 2023-2024: HPV Related Vulvar and Vaginal Diseases
  79. Vulvar Cancer
  80. Vulva and Vagina
  81. VulvaVulval Cancer
  82. Vulval Irritation
  83. Vulval Pain
  84. Vulval Pain Conditions
  85. Vulval Pain Society
  86. Vulval Self-Checks: How To Get To Know Your Vulva and Why You Should
  87. Vulval Self-Examination
  88. Vulval and Vaginal Conditions
  89. Vulvar Anatomy [+ Images]
  90. Vulvar Cancer
  91. Vulvar Cancer
  92. VulvaVulvar Cancer–Patient Version [+ Image]
  93. Vulvovaginal Pain Log
  94. Vulvovaginitis – Overview
  95. Webinars: Previous – Pay Attention on Your Way In! The Vulva Is An Important Organ Too
  96. What Is the Vulva?
  97. What You See In Magazines and Pornography
  98. What’s Normal: Lumps and Bumps
  99. What’s Normal: What Is Normal Vulval & Vaginal Anatomy?
  100. When Sex Hurts – Podcast [Vaginismus and Vulvodynia]

Sources

Where may I find the Sources quoted?

You may find the Sources quoted at:

Sources

  1. Vulva and Vagina: What’s Normal? Appearance. Last Updated: 07 December 2023 | Last Reviewed: 26 April 2023. Jean Hailes for Women’s Health https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/health-a-z/vulva-vagina/vulva-and-vagina Accessed: 05 April 2024
  2. Vulva and Vagina: What Is the Difference Between Your Vulva and Vagina? Last Updated: 07 December 2023 | Last Reviewed: 26 April 2023. Jean Hailes for Women’s Health https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/health-a-z/vulva-vagina/vulva-and-vagina Accessed: 05 April 2024
  3. Vulva and Vagina: What Is the Difference Between Your Vulva and Vagina? Last Updated: 07 December 2023 | Last Reviewed: 26 April 2023. Jean Hailes for Women’s Health https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/health-a-z/vulva-vagina/vulva-and-vagina Accessed: 05 April 2024
  4. Vulva and Vagina: What’s Normal? Appearance. Last Updated: 07 December 2023 | Last Reviewed: 26 April 2023. Jean Hailes for Women’s Health https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/health-a-z/vulva-vagina/vulva-and-vagina Accessed: 05 April 2024
  5. What’s Normal: What Is Normal Vulval & Vaginal Anatomy? Caredownthere.com.au https://www.caredownthere.com.au/_pages/normal.html Accessed: 05 April 2024
  6. Essential Information: Some Facts About the Vulva – Where Do Vulval Problems Belong Medically? Caredownthere.com.au https://www.caredownthere.com.au/_pages/information_vulva.html Accessed: 05 April 2024
  7. International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation, 6 February: Ending Female Genital Mutilation By 2030. United Nations. https://www.un.org/en/observances/female-genital-mutilation-day Accessed: 05 April 2024
  8. Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) Overview. Page Last Reviewed: 27 September 2022. NHS https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/female-genital-mutilation-fgm/ Accessed: 05 April 2024
  9. Female Genital Mutilation: How Prevalent Is FGM? UNICEF https://www.unicef.org/protection/female-genital-mutilation Accessed: 05 April 2024
  10. Female Genital Mutilation: Who Is At Risk? Updated: 05 February 2024. World Health Organization https://www.who.int/en/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/female-genital-mutilation Accessed: 05 April 2024
  11. Vulva and Vagina: What’s Normal? Appearance. Last Updated: 07 December 2023 | Last Reviewed: 26 April 2023. Jean Hailes for Women’s Health https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/health-a-z/vulva-vagina/vulva-and-vagina Accessed: 05 April 2024
  12. Labia Library. Women’s Health Victoria http://www.labialibrary.org.au/ Accessed: 05 April 2024
  13. Vulva and Vagina: What’s Normal? Smell. Last Updated: 07 December 2023 | Last Reviewed: 26 April 2023. Jean Hailes for Women’s Health https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/health-a-z/vulva-vagina/vulva-and-vagina Accessed: 05 April 2024
Topic Last Updated: 05 April 2024 – Topic Last Reviewed: 05 April 2024

/by

Safer Sex

“Safer sex is not just about protection from
unplanned pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections
(STIs). It’s also about making sure everyone involved…”.1

Umbrella
What may the Safer Sex Umbrella include?

Depending on the Source (DotS) this umbrella may include:

  • Safe Sex
  • Safer Sex

Definition

What is safer sex?

DotS the definition of safer sex may vary. The (Australian) Jean Hailes for Women’s Health (JH) definition is:

“Safer sex is not just about protection from unplanned pregnancies and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It’s also about making sure everyone involved feels safe and respected”.2

Tell or Not

Can you tell if a sexual partner has an STI?

No. In Safer Sex and Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): How To Have Safer Sex the JH explain:

“Practising safer sex can reduce your risk of getting an STI. Anyone can catch an STI. You can’t tell if a sexual partner has an STI. A strong and healthy person may still be infected. Some people may not even know they have an STI”.3

Oral Sex

Is oral sex, safer sex?

According to the JH:

“Note that oral sex doesn’t reduce the risk of getting an STI. Common STIs such as herpes, gonorrhoea and chlamydia can all be transmitted through unprotected oral sex”.4

Period

Is sex during your period, safer sex?

No. The JH explain:

“Some infections, such as HIV and hepatitis, are present in menstrual blood. If you have unprotected sex during your period and your partner has broken skin (an abrasion), the infection can be transmitted to your partner. If you have an infection, it’s best to use a condom or dam when having sex during your period”.5

Guidelines

What are safer sex guidelines for women?

In Safe Sex Rules Still Apply: Safer Sex Guidelines for Women of All Ages the North American Menopause Society’s (NAMS) include:

  • “Choose a partner carefully
  • Discuss sexual histories with your partner, and don’t let embarrassment compromise your health
  • Always insist that a male partner use a latex condom for genital, oral, and anal sex unless you are in a long-term, mutually monogamous relationship. Never use petroleum-based products like Vaseline or baby oil to lubricate condoms because they can cause condoms to break
  • Don’t let a male partner’s erection difficulties keep him from using a condom. Dream up some erotic or stimulating methods for putting on the condom to keep his erection going. If all else fails, get a female condom
  • Have an annual physical exam, including a Pap test and lab tests to identify STIs if you are at any risk
  • If you are exposed to an STI or have received a confirmed diagnosis, urge any partners to be tested and treated
  • Consider having both you and your partner checked for STIs before starting a sexual relationship”.6

Condoms

Is the use of condoms safer sex?

In Safer Sex and Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): How To Have Safer Sex – Condoms and Other Barrier Methods the JH elaborate on:

“The safest way to have sex is to use condoms (external or internal) or dental dams and water-based lubricant (lube).

It’s important to use a new condom or dam during sex if you change partners or change from vaginal to anal or oral sex. You should also use a new condom if you share sex toys.

Note, condoms or dams won’t protect against STIs if part of the body with infection is unprotected and there’s skin-to-skin contact. Also, some STIs such as herpes, genital warts and pubic lice may still be spread even if a condom is used”.7

Sex Between Women

What additional safer sex precautions may apply specifically to sex between women?

In Safe Sex Rules Still Apply: Safer Sex Guidelines for Women of All Ages the NAMS explain:

“Although lesbians have fewer STIs than heterosexual women, be aware that STIs can be passed from woman to woman. Some additional precautions apply specifically to sex between women:

  • Prevent transfer of any body fluids (including menstrual blood and vaginal fluids) into cuts, scrapes, or other openings
  • During oral or vulva-to-vulva sex, cover your partner’s vaginal area with a dental dam or similar latex barrier to avoid contact with secretions
  • Avoid sharing sex toys. Either clean them in hot, soapy water or use a new condom before switching users.

Keep in mind that oral sex with a partner who has a cold sore or fever blister can transfer the herpes virus to you if your mouth or genitals come into contact with the sore”.8

Older but New Relationship

When starting a new relationship after many years, what may we need to know about safer sex?

In Safer Sex and Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Safer Sex After A Long-Term Relationship the JH note:

Safer Sex“If you’re starting a new relationship after many years, it’s important to discuss safer sex with new partners. To be even safer, you can both have a sexual health check before having sex. If any issues make it hard for you or your partner to use condoms, talk to your doctor”.9

Health Care Provider

What if I would like help with safer sex?

If you would like help with safer sex, it may be in your best interest to choose to talk to your health care provider about this. The NAMS reassure:

“If your provider asks about your sex life or sexual function, don’t miss the opportunity to be frank and look for help. More important, if your provider doesn’t ask specifically about your sexual function, don’t be afraid to bring up a distressing sexual problem yourself when you’re asked, “How are you feeling?” Most providers today are comfortable addressing such a problem; if your provider is not, consider looking for another.

There is absolutely no need to suffer (or let your relationship suffer) in silence”.10 

Health Topics A-Z

Where may I find Health Topics A-Z related to Safer Sex?

In Health Topics A-Z you may find:

Health Topics A-Z

Links

Where may I find Links related to Safer Sex?

Your Country may have Links similar to:

Links

This Links List to third party websites is neither comprehensive nor exhaustive. Inclusion on this Links List does not imply endorsement or recommendation. Non-inclusion on this Links List does not imply non-endorsement or non-recommendation. Third party websites are not under the control of Meno Martha International Menopause Directory. Third party websites may contain explicit medical images and/or sexual references. Please read Meno Martha International Menopause Directory’s Links Policy before proceeding to a Link. Please contact Webmaster if you experience a problem with a Link.

New or Updated

  1. Australian and New Zealand Vulvovaginal Society: Patient Information
  2. Caredownthere.com.au [Care Down There, Australia]
  3. Condom Effectiveness
  4. Condom Fact Sheet In Brief
  5. Condoms
  6. Contraception
  7. Dental Dam Use
  8. Essential Information: See Your Doctor If…
  9. External (Sometimes Called Male) Condom Use
  10. Female Condom
  11. Internal (Sometimes Called Female) Condom Use
  12. International Society for the Study of Vulvovaginal Diseases: Patient Handouts
  13. International Society for the Study of Women’s Sexual Health: Find A Provider
  14. Later Years (Around 50 Years and Over): Menopause and Post Menopause Health – Sexual Wellbeing, Intimacy and Menopause [+ Video: Menopause Is the End of Your Sex Life]
  15. Patient Information Leaflets
  16. Patty Brisben Foundation for Women’s Sexual Health: Guide To Sexual Health Providers
  17. STDs A To Z
  18. STI Awareness Week [April 14-20, 2024 United States]
    Safer Sex
  19. Safe Sex Rules Still Apply
  20. Safer Sex Guidelines
  21. Safer Sex [+ Video]
  22. Safer Sex and Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
  23. Sex & Sexual Health [Topics]
  24. Sex Activities and Risk
  25. Sexual Health
  26. Sexual Healthcare In Your-20s and Beyond
  27. Sexually Transmitted Diseases
  28. Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)
  29. Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)
  30. Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs): CDC Fact Sheets
  31. Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs): Diagnosis & Treatment
  32. Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs): Diseases & Related Conditions
  33. Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs): How You Can Prevent Sexually Transmitted Diseases
  34. Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs): Just Diagnosed? Next Steps After Testing Positive for Gonorrhea or Chlamydia
  35. Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs): STD Risk and Oral Sex – CDC  Fact Sheet
    Safer Sex
  36. Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs): Symptoms & Causes
  37. Sexually Transmitted Diseases: Other STDs
  38. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
  39. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)
  40. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): STI Symptoms
  41. Sexually Transmitted Infections, All You Need To Know – Podcast
  42. Video Series-2022: Discussing Sexual Health Concerns With Your Health Care Professional
  43. WSHD 2023: Consent
  44. World Association for Sexual Health
  45. World Sexual Health Day
    Safer Sex
  46. Your Contraceptive Guide: Condom Tips
  47. Your Contraceptive Guide: Condoms
  48. Your Contraceptive Guide: Female Condoms
  49. Your Safer Sex Toolbox

Sources

Where may I find the Sources quoted?

You may find the Sources quoted at:

Sources

  1. Safer Sex and Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Safer Sex. Last Updated: 26 March 2024 | Last Reviewed: 12 December 2023. Jean Hailes for Women’s Health https://jeanhailes.org.au/health-a-z/sex-sexual-health/safer-sex-stis/ Accessed: 05 April 2024
  2. Safer Sex and Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Safer Sex. Last Updated: 26 March 2024 | Last Reviewed: 12 December 2023. Jean Hailes for Women’s Health https://jeanhailes.org.au/health-a-z/sex-sexual-health/safer-sex-stis/ Accessed: 05 April 2024
  3. Safer Sex and Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): How To Have Safer Sex. Last Updated: 26 March 2024 | Last Reviewed: 12 December 2023. Jean Hailes for Women’s Health https://jeanhailes.org.au/health-a-z/sex-sexual-health/safer-sex-stis/ Accessed: 05 April 2024
  4. Safer Sex and Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): How To Have Safer Sex. Last Updated: 26 March 2024 | Last Reviewed: 12 December 2023. Jean Hailes for Women’s Health https://jeanhailes.org.au/health-a-z/sex-sexual-health/safer-sex-stis/ Accessed: 05 April 2024
  5. Safer Sex and Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): How To Have Safer Sex – Sex During Your Period. Last Updated: 26 March 2024 | Last Reviewed: 12 December 2023. Jean Hailes for Women’s Health https://jeanhailes.org.au/health-a-z/sex-sexual-health/safer-sex-stis/ Accessed: 05 April 2024
  6. Safe Sex Rules Still Apply: Safer Sex Guidelines for Women of All Ages. North American Menopause Society https://www.menopause.org/for-women/sexual-health-menopause-online/reminders-and-resources/safe-sex-rules-still-apply Accessed: 05 April 2024
  7. Safer Sex and Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): How To Have Safer Sex – Condoms and Other Barrier Methods. Last Updated: 26 March 2024 | Last Reviewed: 12 December 2023. Jean Hailes for Women’s Health https://jeanhailes.org.au/health-a-z/sex-sexual-health/safer-sex-stis/ Accessed: 05 April 2024
  8. Safe Sex Rules Still Apply: Safer Sex Guidelines for Women of All Ages. North American Menopause Society https://www.menopause.org/for-women/sexual-health-menopause-online/reminders-and-resources/safe-sex-rules-still-apply Accessed: 05 April 2024
  9. Safer Sex and Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Safer Sex After A Long-Term Relationship. Last Updated: 26 March 2024 | Last Reviewed: 12 December 2023. Jean Hailes for Women’s Health https://jeanhailes.org.au/health-a-z/sex-sexual-health/safer-sex-stis/ Accessed: 05 April 2024
  10. Talking To Your Health Care Provider About Your Problem. North America Menopause Society https://www.menopause.org/for-women/sexual-health-menopause-online/effective-treatments-for-sexual-problems/talking-to-your-healthcare-provider-about-your-problem Accessed: 05 April 2024
Topic Last Updated: 05 April 2024 – Topic Last Reviewed: 05 April 2024

/by

Hormone Therapy and Smoking

“Overweight and obesity, and smoking are risk factors
for VMS. Weight reduction may result in reduced VMS in
overweight women, and smoking cessation should…”.1

Umbrella
What may the Hormone Therapy and Smoking Umbrella include?

Depending on the Source (DotS) this Umbrella may include:

  • Estrogen Therapy (ET)
  • Estrogen Plus Progestogen Therapy (EPT)
  • Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
  • Hormone Therapy (HT)
  • Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT)
  • Smoking

Smoking

Hormone Therapy and SmokingWhat are smokers encouraged to do?

In The 2023 Practitioner’s Toolkit for Managing Menopause: Management – Considerations for All Women At Menopause: General Advice for Symptom Management, published online 30 October 2023, the authors note:

“Overweight and obesity, and smoking are risk factors for VMS. Weight reduction may result in reduced VMS in overweight women, and smoking cessation should be encouraged”.2

What is VMS?

VMS can be an abbreviation for Vasomotor Symptoms.

Quit Smoking Guide

Where may I find a quit smoking guide?

Your Country may have a quit smoking guide similar to the (United States) Smokefreewomen’s Quit Smoking, the (United Kingdom) NHS’s Quit Smoking or Australia’s Quit website.

Quit Smoking Apps

Where may I find a quit smoking app?

Your Country may have a quit smoking app similar to the Smokefreewomen’s Smokefree Apps and the NHS Quit Smoking app.

Health Care Provider

If I am a smoker and choose to use HT, what are my risks?

If you are a smoker and choose to use HT, it may be in your best interest to also choose to talk to your health care provider about this.

On page 785 in The 2022 Hormone Therapy Position Statement of The North American Menopause Society: Conclusions published July 2022 and “endorsed by more than 20 well-respected international organizations”, one of the conclusions is:

  • “Risks of hormone therapy differ for women, depending on type, dose, duration of use, route of administration, timing of initiation, and whether a progestogen is needed. Treatment should be individualized using the best available evidence to maximize benefits and minimize risks, with periodic reevaluation”.3

Health Topics A-Z

Where may I find Health Topics A-Z related to Hormone Therapy and Smoking?

In Health Topics A-Z you may find:

Health Topics A-Z

Links

Where may I find Links related to Hormone Therapy and Smoking?

Your Country may have Links similar to:

Links

This Links List to third party websites is neither comprehensive nor exhaustive. Inclusion on this Links List does not imply endorsement or recommendation. Non-inclusion on this Links List does not imply non-endorsement or non-recommendation. Third party websites are not under the control of Meno Martha International Menopause Directory. Third party websites may contain explicit medical images and/or sexual references. Please read Meno Martha International Menopause Directory’s Links Policy before proceeding to a Link. Please contact Webmaster if you experience a problem with a Link.

New or Updated

  1. 8 Myths and Truths About Menopausal Hot Flashes
  2. ACOG Explains: Managing Menopause Symptoms [American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists] [October 2023]
  3. BMS & WHC’s 2020 Recommendations on Hormone Replacement Therapy In Menopausal Women
  4. BMS TV: Bioidentical Hormones
  5. BMS TV: Complementary and Alternative Therapies
  6. BMS TV: Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
  7. Benefits of Quitting Smoking
  8. Bioidentical Hormones: Are They Safer?
  9. Challenges When Quitting
  10. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT)
  11. Compounded Bioidentical Hormone Therapy [Video]
  12. Consumer Health: Lung Cancer, Smoking and Why It’s Always A Good Time To Quit
  13. Deciding About Hormone Therapy
  14. Deciding About Hormone Therapy Use
  15. Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)
  16. Dr Louise Newson: The Truth About the Menopause & HRT
  17. FAQs: Hormone Therapy for Menopause
  18. Find A Menopause Practitioner [United States and Other]
  19. Find An AMS Doctor [Australasian Menopause Society i.e. Australia and New Zealand]
  20. Find Your Nearest BMS Menopause Specialist [British Menopause Society]
  21. Five Reasons Why Calling A Quitline Can Be Key To Your Success
  22. Giving Up Smoking
  23. Great American Smokeout [Third Thursday In November]
  24. HRT & Menopause Extra
  25. HRT: Benefits and Risks
  26. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
  27. Hormone Therapy: Is It Right for You?
  28. Hot Flashes
  29. Hot Flashes: What Can I Do? [+ Video: What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Menopause?]
  30. How Quitting Helps Women’s Health
  31. How To Prevent Cancer: 6 Ways To Lower Your Risk
  32. How To Quit Smoking
  33. How To Quit Smoking: 7 Ways To Kick the Habit
  34. I Forgot To Ask the Doctor – E9: The Menopause: Can Every Woman That Wants It Have HRT?
  35. Joint Position Statement By the British Menopause Society, Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists and Society for Endocrinology on Best Practice Recommendations for the Care of Women Experiencing the Menopause
  36. Later Years (Around 50 Years and Over): Menopause and Post Menopause Health – Early and Premature Menopause [+ Video: Menopause Only Happens In Your 50s]
  37. Later Years (Around 50 Years and Over): Menopause and Post Menopause Health – Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) [+ Video: Is HRT Bad for You?]
  38. Let’s Talk About Perimenopause
  39. Manage the Hard Times
  40. Mayo Clinic Minute: Help With Hot Flashes Due To Menopause [+ Video Courtesy: Mayo Clinic News Network]
  41. Mayo Clinic Minute: How Lifestyle Changes May Help Manage Menopause Symptoms [+ Video]
  42. Mayo Clinic Minute: Strategies To Quit Smoking [+ Video Courtesy: Mayo Clinic News Network]
  43. Mayo Clinic Q and A: Perimenopause Transitions and Concerns
  44. Menopausal Hormone Therapy
  45. Menopause
  46. Menopause Checklist Podcast
  47. Menopause Management Options: Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT)
  48. Menopause Map: Downloadable Resources – My Personal Path Print Tools: Questions for Your Health Care Provider
    Hormone Therapy and Smoking
  49. Menopause Mindfulness: Understanding the Many Paths To Menopause
  50. Menopause Patient Information [Videos] 2. Talking To Your GP About Menopause
  51. Menopause Patient Information [Videos] 3. The Risks & Benefits of HRT
  52. Menopause Patient Information [Videos] 4. The Different Types of HRT
  53. Menopause Patient Information [Videos] 5. Lifestyle Advice In Menopause & Perimenopause
  54. Menopause Preparedness Toolkit Video Series: Lifestyle Tips for Menopause Wellness
  55. Menopause Preparedness Toolkit Video Series: Mindfulness & Wellbeing During the Menopause Transition
  56. Menopause Preparedness Toolkit: A Woman’s Empowerment Guide
  57. Menopause Symptoms: Mayo Clinic Expert Outlines Hormone and Nonhormonal Therapies
  58. Menopause Treatments: What Works, What Doesn’t
  59. Menopause and HRT
  60. Menopause and Natural Therapies
  61. Menopause: Ensuring A Tranquil Transition
  62. Menopause: Things You Can Do
  63. Menopause: Understanding the Changes and Finding Relief | Dr Susan Davis | The Proof Podcast EP 256
  64. More Than 100 Reasons To Quit Tobacco
  65. Mymenoplan.org [My Menoplan, United States]
  66. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health: Quitting Smoking With Complementary Health Approaches: What You Need To Know
  67. Natural Remedies To Help Manage Perimenopause Symptoms
  68. Natural Therapies
  69. Navigating Menopause: Expert Insights and Solutions | Dr Susan Davis | The Proof Podcast EP 245
  70. Non-Estrogen Treatments for Menopausal Symptoms
  71. Nonhormone Treatments for Hot Flashes and Night Sweats
  72. Quit Smoking
  73. Quit Smoking This January
  74. Quit Smoking for Better Health
  75. Quit.org.au
  76. Quitting Starts Now. Make Your Quit Plan.
  77. Quitting Toolkit
  78. Smokefree.gov [United States]
  79. Smokefreeespañol
  80. Smokefreewomen [United States]
  81. Smokefreewomen [United States]: Smokefree Apps
  82. Smokefreewomen [United States]: Tools & Tips
  83. Smoking
  84. Smoking’s Impact on Women’s Health
  85. Stop Smoking Aids
  86. The 2023 Practitioner’s Toolkit for Managing Menopause
  87. The Link Between Stress and Smoking
  88. The Truth About Menopause Supplements | Dr Sarah Berry
  89. Therapy for the Effects of Menopause
  90. Tips To Help Manage Menopause Symptoms
  91. Using Natural Therapies In the Menopause Transition – Webinar
  92. Video Series-2022: Hormone Therapy: Understanding the Risks and Benefits
  93. Video Series-2023: NAMS 2023 Nonhormone Therapies Position Statement for Bothersome Menopause Symptoms
  94. Video Series-2023: New FDA-Approved Nonhormone Option for the Treatment of Hot Flashes
  95. Videos and Podcasts: Videos – Interviews: A Simple Approach To Menopause: The Menopause Quick Six (www.MQ6.ca)
  96. Videos & Podcasts: Videos – Interviews: Preventing Bone Loss At Menopause
  97. Webinars: Previous – Approach To Bone Health In the Perimenopause and Postmenopause?
  98. Webinars: Previous – Non-Hormonal Pharmacological Interventions For VMS
  99. Why Didn’t Anyone Tell Me This? Episode 3: Dr Annice Mukherjee: Your Essential Menopause Toolkit
  100. You Are ‘Here’: A Smoker’s Guide To Quitting

Sources

Where may I find the Sources quoted?

You may find the Sources quoted at:

Sources

  1. Davis, S. R., Taylor, S., Hemachandra, C., Magraith, K., Ebeling, P. R., Jane, F., and Islam, R. M. The 2023 Practitioner’s Toolkit for Managing Menopause: Management – Considerations for All Women At Menopause: General Advice for Symptom Management. Published Online: 30 October 2023 https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/13697137.2023.2258783 Accessed: 04 April 2024
  2. Davis, S. R., Taylor, S., Hemachandra, C., Magraith, K., Ebeling, P. R., Jane, F., and Islam, R. M. The 2023 Practitioner’s Toolkit for Managing Menopause: Management – Considerations for All Women At Menopause: General Advice for Symptom Management. Published Online: 30 October 2023 https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/13697137.2023.2258783 Accessed: 04 April 2024
  3. The 2022 Hormone Therapy Position Statement of The North American Menopause Society: Conclusions. 2022: 785. North American Menopause Society https://www.menopause.org/docs/default-source/professional/nams-2022-hormone-therapy-position-statement.pdf Accessed: 01 April 2024
Topic Last Updated: 04 April 2024 – Topic Last Reviewed: 04 April 2024

/by

Premenopause

“The term premenopause
refers to the phase of life
that precedes menopause”. Read more

/by

Menopause In Multiply Languages

Menopause In Multiply Languages includes Arabic, Bulgarian, Cantonese, Chinese (Simplified), Dutch, French, Gaelic, German, Hindi, Italian, Japanese, Korean and more…

Umbrella
What may the Menopause In Multiply Languages Umbrella include?

Depending on the Source (DotS) this Umbrella may include:

  • Menopause In Different/Many/Multiply/Other Languages
  • Menopause Information In Different/Many/Multiply/Other Languages
  • Menopause Multilingual Fact Sheets
  • Menopause Translations

Date

What can it be important to be clear about with menopause in multiply languages information?

It can be important to be clear about the date of all information including the date of menopause in multiply languages information because this information may have been updated.

Health Care Provider

What if I would like to find out what menopause in multiply languages information is applicable to me?

If you would like to find out what menopause in multiply languages information is applicable to you, it may be in your best interest to choose to talk to your health care provider about this.


Menopause In Multiply Languages

Health Topics A-Z

Where may I find Health Topics A-Z related to Menopause In Multiply Languages?

In Health Topics A-Z you may find:

Health Topics A-Z

Links

Where may I find Links related to Menopause In Multiply Languages?

Your Country may have Links similar to:

Links

This Links List to third party websites is neither comprehensive nor exhaustive. Inclusion on this Links List does not imply endorsement or recommendation. Non-inclusion on this Links List does not imply non-endorsement or non-recommendation. Third party websites are not under the control of Meno Martha International Menopause Directory. Third party websites may contain explicit medical images and/or sexual references. Please read Meno Martha International Menopause Directory’s Links Policy before proceeding to a Link. Please contact Webmaster if you experience a problem with a Link.

New or Updated

  1. 10 Urdu Fact Sheets: Menopause Fact Sheet In Urdu
  2. EMAS On-Demand Webinars [European Menopause and Andropause Society] [Multiply Languages]: Menopause Beyond Hot Flushes: How To Address Common Symptoms In the Asian Population? (Chinese)
  3. EMAS On-Demand Webinars [European Menopause and Andropause Society] [Multiply Languages]: Practical Aspects of MHT: Regimen, Dosage, Duration of Treatment, and Adverse Events Handling (Spanish)
  4. Fact Sheets: SWAN Fact Sheets – Hojas de datos | 数据表 [Study of Women’s Health Across the Nation]
  5. Health Information In Multiple Languages
  6. Health Translations
  7. Heavy Periods Video In 6 Languages
  8. Menopause In Multiply LanguagesKnowYourMenopause Poster Download [Dutch]
  9. KnowYourMenopause Poster Download [English]
  10. KnowYourMenopause Poster Download [French]
  11. KnowYourMenopause Poster Download [Gaelic]
  12. KnowYourMenopause Poster Download [German]
  13. KnowYourMenopause Poster Download [Polish]
  14. KnowYourMenopause Poster Download [Romanian]
  15. KnowYourMenopause Poster Download [Urdu]
  16. KnowYourMenopause Poster Download [Welsh]
  17. KnowYourMenopause Poster for People With Extra Learning Needs
  18. Later Years (Around 50 Years and Over): Menopause and Post Menopause Health – After the Menopause [Other Languages and Formats]
  19. Later Years (Around 50 Years and Over): Menopause and Post Menopause Health – Early and Premature Menopause [Other Languages and Formats]
  20. Later Years (Around 50 Years and Over): Menopause and Post Menopause Health – Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) [Other Languages and Formats]
  21. Later Years (Around 50 Years and Over): Menopause and Post Menopause Health – Menopause [+ Video: Menopause] [Other Languages and Formats]
  22. Later Years (Around 50 Years and Over): Menopause and Post Menopause Health – Menopause and Your Mental Wellbeing [+ Video: Menopause Only Affects You Physically!] [Other Languages and Formats]
  23. Later Years (Around 50 Years and Over): Menopause and Post Menopause Health – Menopause and the Workplace [Other Languages and Formats]
  24. Later Years (Around 50 Years and Over): Menopause and Post Menopause Health – Sexual Wellbeing, Intimacy and Menopause [Other Languages and Formats]
  25. Later Years (Around 50 Years and Over): Menopause and Post Menopause Health – Signs and Symptoms of Menopause [Other Languages and Formats]
  26. Later Years (Around 50 Years and Over): Menopause and Post Menopause Health – Supporting Someone Through the Menopause [Other Languages and Formats]
  27. Later Years (Around 50 Years and Over): Menopause and Post Menopause Health – Treating Menopause Symptoms [Other Languages and Formats]
  28. Leaflets: Contraception for Older Women [Multiply Languages]
  29. Menopause In Multiply LanguagesLeaflets: Menopause FAQ [Multiply Languages]
  30. Maori: Menopause What Are the Symptoms? Te ruahinetanga, he aha ngā tohu?
  31. Maori: What Is Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT) and Is It Safe?
  32. Menopause In Ethnic Minority Women [United Kingdom]
  33. Menopause (Burmese) – သွေးဆုံးခြင်း
  34. Menopause (Chinese Simplified) – 更年期／绝经
  35. Menopause (Greek) – Εμμηνόπαυση
  36. Menopause (Hindi) – रजोनिवृत्ति
  37. Menopause (Italian) – Menopausa
  38. Menopause (Karen) – ပိၥ်မုၣ်သွံၣ်ထံကတၢၢ်
  39. Menopause (Nuer) – Cuɔ̱ŋ riɛ̱m da̱pä
  40. Menopause (Portuguese) – Menopausa
  41. Menopause (Punjabi) – ਮਾਹਵਾਰੀ ਆਉਣਾ ਬੰਦ ਹੋਣਾ (ਮੇਨੋਪੌਜ਼)
  42. Menopause (Somali) – Joogsiga dhiigga caadada
  43. Menopause (Swahili) – Kukoma Hedhi
  44. Menopause (Tamil) – மெனோபாஸ்
  45. Menopause (Thai) – วัยหมดประจําเดือน
  46. Menopause (Turkish) – Menopoz
  47. Menopause (Vietnamese) – Mãn kinh
  48. Menopause – Multiply Languages
  49. Menopause – Multiply Languages: Managing Menopause – Arabic (العربية)
  50. Menopause – Multiply Languages: Managing Menopause – Chinese, Simplified (Mandarin Dialect) (简体中文)
  51. Menopause – Multiply Languages: Managing Menopause – Chinese, Traditional (Cantonese Dialect) (繁體中文)
  52. Menopause – Multiply Languages: Managing Menopause – French (Français)
  53. Menopause – Multiply Languages: Managing Menopause – Hindi (हिन्दी)
  54. Menopause – Multiply Languages: Managing Menopause – Japanese (日本語)
  55. Menopause – Multiply Languages: Managing Menopause – Korean (한국어)
  56. Menopause – Multiply Languages: Managing Menopause – Nepali (नेपाली)
  57. Menopause – Multiply Languages: Managing Menopause – Russian (Русский)
  58. Menopause – Multiply Languages: Managing Menopause – Somali (Af-Soomaali)
  59. Menopause – Multiply Languages: Managing Menopause – Spanish (español)
  60. Menopause – Multiply Languages: Managing Menopause – Vietnamese (Tiếng Việt)
  61. Menopause: Download Menopause Fact Sheet In Other Languages [Food and Drug Administration Office of Women’s Health, United States]
  62. Menopausia
  63. Menopausia
  64. Other Languages and Formats [NHS Inform, Scotland]
  65. Perimenopause and Menopause Checklist: Translated Checklists
  66. Publications In Other Languages: Women’s Health [Food and Administration Administration, United States]
  67. The Menopause [Multiply Languages]
  68. The Menopause [Multiply Languages]: Bulgarian
  69. The Menopause [Multiply Languages]: English
  70. The Menopause [Multiply Languages]: Lithuanian
  71. The Menopause [Multiply Languages]: Polish
  72. The Menopause [Multiply Languages]: Romanian
  73. The Menopause [Multiply Languages]: Spanish
  74. Translated Fact Sheets [Jean Hailes for Women’s Health, Australia]
  75. Translating Health Information for Women
  76. Translations: Arabic – The Menopause [Topics]
  77. Translations: Chinese (Simplified) – The Menopause [Topics]
  78. Translations: Menopause (Arabic)
  79. Translations: Menopause (Chinese Simplified)
  80. Translations: Menopause (Punjabi)
  81. Translations: Menopause (Urdu)
  82. Menopause In Multiply LanguagesTranslations: Polish – The Menopause [Topics]
  83. Translations: Punjabi – The Menopause [Topics]
  84. Translations: Urdu – The Menopause [Topics]
  85. Vietnamese: Menopause What Are the Symptoms?
  86. Vietnamese: What Is Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT) and Is It Safe?
  87. Videos and Podcasts: Menopause Explained – Cantonese – 廣州話
  88. Videos and Podcasts: Menopause Explained – Mandarin – 中国官话
  89. Videos and Podcasts: Menopause Explained – Vietnamese – Tiếng Việt
  90. Webinar: Previous – TH no Climatério: Avaliação préTtratamento
  91. World Menopause Day [2023]: Patient Information Leaflet – Cardiovascular Disease: What Women Need To Know [Multiply Languages]
  92. World Menopause Day [2023]: The IMS White Paper – Reproductive Milestones Across the Lifespan and Cardiovascular Disease Risk In Women [Multiply Languages]
  93. ¿Qué es la Menopausia?

Topic Last Updated: 04 April 2024 – Topic Last Reviewed: 04 April 2024
/by

Hormone Therapy Side Effects

“Any side effects usually improve over time,
so it’s a good idea to carry on with your treatment
for at least 3 months if possible”.1

Umbrella
What may the Hormone Therapy Side Effects Umbrella include?

Depending on the Source (DotS) this Umbrella may include:

  • Estrogen
  • Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) Side Effects
  • Hormone Therapy (HT) Side Effects
  • Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT) Side Effects
  • Oestrogen
  • Progestin/Progestogen

Side Effects or Not

Can hormone therapy (HT) have side effects?

Yes. In Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Side Effects of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) the (United Kingdom) NHS elaborate on:

“Like any medicine, the hormones used in hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can cause side effects. But it’s common to have no side effects or only mild ones.

Any side effects usually improve over time, so it’s a good idea to carry on with your treatment for at least 3 months if possible.

To help with side effects, a GP might suggest changing your dose, the type of HRT you take or how you take it. For example, switching from tablets to patches”.2

Who is a GP?

DotS and/or DotC (Depending on the Country) a GP may be a qualified and registered general practitioner, a medical practitioner, a medical doctor or a doctor.

Different Differences

Can the side effects of oestrogen differ from the side effects of progestogen?

Hormone Therapy Side EffectsHormone Therapy Side EffectsYes. In Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Side Effects of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) the NHS include the “Side Effects of Oestrogen” and the “Side Effects of Progestogen”.

In Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Side Effects of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Side Effects of Oestrogen Tablets, Patches, Gel and Spray the NHS include information about Brand names: Oestrogel, Evorel, Sandrena, Lenzetto, Estradot, Progynova.

Side Effects

What can are HT side effects include?

In Menopause Management Options: Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT) – Possible Side Effects of MHT the (Australian) Jean Hailes for Women’s Health (JH) note:

“Everyone responds differently to MHT. Some women may not experience any side effects, while others may have:

  • Nausea
  • Fluid retention
  • Bloating
  • Breast enlargement and discomfort
  • Vaginal bleeding
  • Weight gain.

Most symptoms settle within the first three months”.3

Side Effects of Oestrogen

What can side effects of oestrogen include?

In Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Side Effects of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Side Effects of Oestrogen the NHS explain

“Side effects of taking oestrogen can include:

  • Headaches
  • Breast pain or tenderness
  • Unexpected vaginal bleeding or spotting
  • Feeling sick (nausea)
  • Mood changes, including low mood or depression
  • Leg cramps
  • Mild rash or itching
  • Diarrhoea
  • Hair loss

They will often go away after a few weeks”.4

Side Effects of Progestogen

What can side effects of progestogen include?

In Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Side Effects of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Side Effects of Progestogen the NHS explain

“Side effects of taking progestogen can include:

  • Changes in your periods, including spotting or bleeding between periods
  • Headaches
  • Breast pain or tenderness
  • Feeling sick (nausea)
  • Diarrhoea
  • Feeling tired or dizzy
  • Mood changes, including low mood or depression
  • Mild rash or itchy skin
  • Acne

As with side effects of oestrogen, these will usually go away after a few weeks. There are things you can do to help cope with them”.5

Weight Gain

Is there an association between weight gain and HT?

In Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Side Effects – Weight Gain and HRT the NHS note:

“There’s little evidence that most types of HRT make you put on weight.

You may gain some weight during the menopause and as you get older, but this often happens whether you take HRT or not.

Exercising regularly and eating a healthy diet should help you to lose any unwanted weight”.6

Temporary or Not

Are HT side effects temporary?

In The 2023 Practitioner’s Toolkit for Managing Menopause: Management – Effectiveness: Managing Clinical Side Effects of MHT Therapy, published online 30 October 2023, the authors explain:

“Initiating treatment with low-dose MHT will minimize the likelihood of adverse effects. Common adverse effects of estrogen include nausea (mostly limited to oral therapy) and breast tenderness. Breakthrough bleeding is not unexpected in the first 3 months of continuous-combined estrogen–progestogen therapy, and occasionally heavy bleeding can occur. Progestogen therapy may cause low mood or irritability. When this occurs either the dose needs to be reduced or another progestogen tried. Micronized progesterone may improve sleep and sometimes causes somnolence, and so should be taken at bedtime. Changing from one regimen to another in many cases will alleviate adverse effects.

Potential adverse effects of tibolone include fluid retention, mild weight gain and initial vaginal bleeding or spotting”.7

Health Care Provider

What if I need help with my HT side effects?

If you need help with your HT side effects, it may be in your best interest to choose to talk to your health care provider about this.

In Menopause Management Options: Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT): How Long Do You Need To Take MHT? the JH elaborate on:

Hormone Therapy Side effects“It can take around six months to find the right MHT. Once you’ve found an MHT that works for you, it’s important to review it with your doctor each year”.8

In The 2023 Practitioner’s Toolkit for Managing Menopause: Management – Effectiveness: Managing Clinical Side Effects of MHT Therapy the authors elaborate on:

“Optimally, women using systemic MHT should have a medical review at 3 months to assess symptom relief and side effects. This is also an opportunity to discuss any patient concerns and ensure correct use of the prescribed therapy”.9

In Postmenopausal Bleeding: Living With – When Should I Contact My Doctor? the (United States) Cleveland Clinic also note:

“Contact your healthcare provider if you experience any vaginal bleeding:

  • More than a year after your last menstrual period
  • More than a year after starting hormone replacement therapy (HRT)”.10

Health Topics A-Z

Where may I find Health Topics A-Z related to Hormone Therapy Side Effects?

In Health Topics A-Z you may find:

Health Topics A-Z

Links

Where may I find Links related to Hormone Therapy Side Effects?

Your Country may have Links similar to:

Links

This Links List to third party websites is neither comprehensive nor exhaustive. Inclusion on this Links List does not imply endorsement or recommendation. Non-inclusion on this Links List does not imply non-endorsement or non-recommendation. Third party websites are not under the control of Meno Martha International Menopause Directory. Third party websites may contain explicit medical images and/or sexual references. Please read Meno Martha International Menopause Directory’s Links Policy before proceeding to a Link. Please contact Webmaster if you experience a problem with a Link.

New or Updated

  1. 20 Years of Data Lead To Changes In Perceptions, Usage of Menopausal HT
  2. BMS & WHC’s 2020 Recommendations on Hormone Replacement Therapy In Menopausal Women
  3. BMS TV: HRT and Bleeding
  4. BMS TV: Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
  5. BMS TV: Testosterone Explained
  6. Bioidentical Hormones: Are They Safer?
  7. Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT) for Menopausal Symptoms
  8. Compounded Bioidentical Hormone Therapy [Video]
  9. Deciding About Hormone Therapy
  10. Deciding About Hormone Therapy Use
  11. Dr Louise Newson: The Truth About the Menopause & HRT
  12. Endometrial Safety of Low-Dose Vaginal Estrogens
  13. Endometrial Safety of Low-Dose Vaginal Estrogens [Video]
  14. Find A Menopause Practitioner [United States and Other]
  15. Find An AMS Doctor [Australasian Menopause Society i.e. Australia and New Zealand]
  16. Find Your Nearest BMS Menopause Specialist [British Menopause Society]
  17. Guidance on Menopausal Hormone Therapy
  18. HRT
  19. HRT & Menopause Extra [Video]
  20. HRT – Types, Doses and Regimens
  21. HRT: Benefits and Risks – What You Should Know
  22. Hormone Replacement Therapy
  23. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
  24. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) With Dr Nicky Peel & Prof. David Armstrong [Video]
  25. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Alternatives To Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
  26. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Benefits and Risks of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
  27. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Continuous Combined Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) Tablets, Capsules and Patches – Side Effects of Continuous Combined HRT
  28. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Oestrogen Tablets, Patches, Gel and Spray – Side Effects of Oestrogen Tablets, Patches, Gel and Spray
  29. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Sequential Combined Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) Tablets and Patches – Side Effects of Sequential Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
  30. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Side Effects of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
  31. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Tibolone – Side Effects of Tibolone
  32. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Utrogestan (Microsecond Progesterone) – Side Effects of Utrogestan
  33. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Vaginal Oestrogen – Side Effects of Vaginal Estrogen
  34. Hormone Therapy: Is It Right for You?
  35. I Forgot To Ask the Doctor – E9: The Menopause: Can Every Woman That Wants It Have HRT?
  36. Joint Position Statement By the British Menopause Society, Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists and Society for Endocrinology on Best Practice Recommendations for the Care of Women Experiencing the Menopause
  37. Later Years (Around 50 Years and Over): Menopause and Post Menopause Health – Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) [+ Video: Is HRT Bad for You?]
  38. Managing Your Symptoms
  39. Menopausal Hormone Therapy
  40. Menopausal Hormone Therapy and Breast Cancer Risk
  41. Menopausal Hormone Therapy and Venous Thromboembolism
  42. Menopausal Hormone Therapy, Heart Disease and Stroke
  43. Menopause
  44. Menopause
  45. Menopause Management Options: Menopausal Hormone Therapy (HRT)
  46. Menopause Map: Downloadable Resources – My Personal Path Print Tools – Questions for Your Health Care Provider
    Hormone Therapy Side Effects
  47. Menopause Patient Information [Videos] 2. Talking To Your GP About Menopause
  48. Menopause Patient Information [Videos] 3. The Risks & Benefits of HRT
  49. Menopause Patient Information [Videos] 4. The Different Types of HRT
  50. Menopause Preparedness Toolkit Video Series: Treating Vasomotor Symptoms of Menopause
  51. Menopause and HRT
  52. Menopause, Perimenopause, Hormone Therapy and Other Treatments With Madelyn Butler, MD [Podcast]
  53. Menopause: Diagnosis & Treatment
  54. Menopause: Diagnosis and Management – Information for the Public: Benefits and Risks of HRT [NICE Guideline]
  55. Menopause: Diagnosis and Management – Information for the Public: Questions To Ask About Menopause [NICE Guideline]
  56. Menopause: Understanding the Changes and Finding Relief | Dr Susan Davis | The Proof Podcast EP #256
  57. Navigating Menopause: Expert Insights and Solutions | Dr Susan Davis | The Proof Podcast EP 245
  58. Perimenopausal and Postmenopausal Bleeding
  59. Questions To Ask Your GP About Menopause
  60. Side Effects of Hormone Therapy In Women
  61. The 2023 Practitioner’s Toolkit for Managing Menopause
  62. The North American Menopause Society Releases Its 2022 Hormone Therapy Position Statement
  63. The Truth About Menopause Supplements | Dr Sarah Berry
  64. Therapy for the Effects of Menopause
  65. Vaginal Dryness
  66. Vaginal Dryness
  67. Video Series-2022: Hormone Therapy: Understanding the Risks and Benefits
  68. Video Series-2023: NAMS 2023 Nonhormone Therapies Position Statement for Bothersome Menopause Symptoms
  69. Video Series-2023: New FDA-Approved Nonhormone Option for the Treatment of Hot Flashes
  70. Video Series-2023: Premature and Early Menopause
  71. Video Series-2024: Preparing for Your Menopause Health Care Visit
  72. Videos and Podcasts: Videos – Interviews: A Simple Approach To Menopause: The Menopause Quick Six (www.MQ6.ca)
  73. Webinars: Previous – Non-Hormonal Pharmacological Interventions For VMS
  74. Why Didn’t Anyone Tell Me This? Episode 3: Dr Annice Mukherjee: Your Essential Menopause Toolkit

Sources

Where may I find the Sources quoted?

You may find the Sources quoted at:

Sources

  1. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Side Effects of Hormone Replacement Therapy. Page Last Reviewed: 03 January 2023. NHS https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/hormone-replacement-therapy-hrt/side-effects-of-hormone-replacement-therapy-hrt/ Accessed: 04 April 2024
  2. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Side Effects of Hormone Replacement Therapy. Page Last Reviewed: 03 January 2023. NHS https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/hormone-replacement-therapy-hrt/side-effects-of-hormone-replacement-therapy-hrt/ Accessed: 04 April 2024
  3. Menopause Management Options: Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT) – Possible Side Effects of MHT: Break Through Bleeding. Last Updated: 19 December 2023 | Last Reviewed: 19 August 2022. Jean Hailes for Women’s Health https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/health-a-z/menopause/menopause-management Accessed: 04 April 2024
  4. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Side Effects of Hormone Replacement Therapy – Side Effects of Oestrogen. Page Last Reviewed: 03 January 2023. NHS https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/hormone-replacement-therapy-hrt/side-effects-of-hormone-replacement-therapy-hrt/ Accessed: 04 April 2024
  5. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Side Effects of Hormone Replacement Therapy – Side Effects of Progestogen. Page Last Reviewed: 03 January 2023. NHS https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/hormone-replacement-therapy-hrt/side-effects-of-hormone-replacement-therapy-hrt/ Accessed: 04 April 2024
  6. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Side Effects – Weight Gain and HRT. Page Last Reviewed: 03 January 2023. NHS https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/hormone-replacement-therapy-hrt/side-effects/ Accessed: 04 April 2024
  7. Davis, S. R., Taylor, S., Hemachandra, C., Magraith, K., Ebeling, P. R., Jane, F., and Islam, R. M. The 2023 Practitioner’s Toolkit for Managing Menopause: Management – Effectiveness: Managing Clinical Side Effects of MHT Therapy. First Published Online 30 October 2023 https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/13697137.2023.2258783 Accessed: 04 April 2024
  8. Menopause Management Options: Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT) – How Long Do You Need To Take MHT? Last Updated: 19 December 2023 | Last Reviewed: 19 August 2022. Jean Hailes for Women’s Health https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/health-a-z/menopause/menopause-management Accessed: 04 April 2024
  9. Davis, S. R., Taylor, S., Hemachandra, C., Magraith, K., Ebeling, P. R., Jane, F., and Islam, R. M. The 2023 Practitioner’s Toolkit for Managing Menopause: Management – Effectiveness: Managing Clinical Side Effects of MHT Therapy. First Published Online 30 October 2023 https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/13697137.2023.2258783 Accessed: 04 April 2024
  10. Postmenopausal Bleeding: Living With – When Should I Contact My Doctor? Last Reviewed: 26 May 2021. Cleveland Clinic https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21549-postmenopausal-bleeding Accessed: 04 April 2024
Topic Last Updated: 04 April 2024 – Topic Last Reviewed: 04 April 2024

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