Is itching a symptom of menopause?

Itchy skin is very common in the menopause and is often caused by falling oestrogen levels, which cause skin to lose moisture and become thinner.

However, stress can make symptoms worse by triggering the production of histamine, which makes the skin more prone to itching and rashes.

Dehydration and constipation can be contributory factors too, so do look at your diet and make sure that you are drinking plenty of plain water every day - tea, coffee and fizzy drinks don't count! Proper hydration is good for the skin and also reduces the negative effects of stress and histamine.

You could also try a fermented soya supplement - to help gently balance oestrogen levels, which may benefit your skin.

Some women find taking a couple of cups of nettle tea a day can help too, as nettles counter histamine and cleanse the bloodstream.

The skin may be more sensitive generally at this time, so check what kind of soap/shower gel you are using and maybe swap it for an organic one.

The majority of washes/soaps contain a whole heap of chemicals and that may be contributing to the irritability. You may find applying Neem Cream helps to soothe the itch.

Eileen Durward