Twelve Lesser Known Menopausal Symptoms and What You Can Do About Them
When people think of menopause symptoms, they often imagine hot flushes, period changes and mood swings. But the hormonal shifts during perimenopause and menopause can trigger far more unexpected changes — ones many women feel too embarrassed or confused to discuss.
By Dr Louise Horrocks
My colleague Dr Ginny Ponsford was recently quoted in a really good article in the iPaper about eight lesser know symptoms of perimenopause. This got me thinking about some of the lesser known symptoms of the menopause and how an how understanding of these symptoms can be so empowering - it helps you recognise what’s happening in your body, take control of your menopause health, and find the right support.
Here are twelve menopause symptoms women rarely talk about, why they happen, and what you can do to ease them.
Burning Mouth Syndrome
A burning or tingling feeling in the mouth, tongue, or lips.
Why it happens: Hormone fluctuations can affect saliva production and nerve sensitivity.
What helps: Hydration, avoiding acidic foods, sugar-free gum, and seeking professional advice if symptoms persist.
Electric Shock Sensations
Short, sharp “zap-like” sensations in the head or body.
Why it happens: Rapid hormone changes affect nerve communication.
What helps: Stress reduction, breathwork, and tracking triggers.
Formication (Crawling Skin)
A prickly, crawling feeling under the skin.
Why it happens: Falling oestrogen influences collagen and nerve function.
What helps: Moisturising skincare, gentle exfoliation, staying hydrated.
Itchy Ears
Dry, itchy ears are a surprisingly common perimenopause symptom.
Why it happens: Declining oestrogen reduces moisture levels.
What helps: Avoid cotton buds, use gentle ear moisturisers, consult your GP if severe.
Feeling Cold (Cold Flushes)
Not just hot flushes — cold flushes are real too.
Why it happens: The body’s temperature regulation becomes inconsistent.
What helps: Layered clothing, warm beverages, tracking when episodes occur.
Muscle Twitches or Restless Legs
Unsettling twitches, often worse at night.
Why it happens: Hormone changes affect magnesium levels and nerve signals.
What helps: Stretching, warm baths, magnesium-rich foods, and good sleep habits.
Tingling Hands and Feet
Pins and needles that come and go.
Why it happens: Hormonal imbalances influence circulation and nerve sensitivity.
What helps: Massage, regular movement, supportive footwear.
Body Odour Changes
A noticeable shift in natural scent or sweating.
Why it happens: Menopause affects temperature regulation and stress responses.
What helps: Breathable fabrics, natural deodorants, identifying your hot flush triggers.
Digestive Upset
Bloating, gas, constipation, or sudden food sensitivities.
Why it happens: Oestrogen plays a role in gut motility and microbiome balance.
What helps: Fibre, hydration, probiotics, food journaling.
Dry Eyes
Gritty, tired, or irritated eyes.
Why it happens: Hormone declines affect tear production.
What helps: Hydrating drops, screen breaks, protective sunglasses.
Tinnitus (Ringing in the Ears)
A constant or intermittent ringing, buzzing, or whooshing sound.
Why it happens: Hormonal changes can affect blood flow, auditory nerves, and middle-ear function. Many women report tinnitus worsening during perimenopause.
What helps: Stress reduction, white-noise apps, reducing caffeine, and seeing an audiologist if symptoms persist.
Facial Hair Growth
Unwanted chin, upper lip, or cheek hair appearing more noticeably.
Why it happens: Declining oestrogen and relatively higher androgen levels can change hair growth patterns
What helps: Gentle facial hair removal methods, dermaplaning, electroysis, or hormonal treatment options.
You deserve personalised expert menopause support — you don’t have to suffer in silence.
You’re Not Alone.
Every woman’s menopause journey is unique. These lesser-known symptoms are more common than you might think, and recognising them is the first step toward feeling more in control of your wellbeing.
Book an appointment at The Women's Hormone Clinic to discuss your symptoms.
