Ever wondered if menopause can bring on nausea? You’re not alone. Many people experience this uncomfortable symptom during menopause and perimenopause. While it’s not as widely discussed as hot flashes or mood swings or a common occurrence, nausea is a part of many people’s journey.
What is nausea?
Nausea is that queasy, uneasy sensation in your stomach. It can range from mild, fleeting discomfort to a more intense, persistent issue that disrupts your daily routine. Various factors, including motion sickness, food poisoning, and hormone changes can trigger nausea. One theory is that it serves as a way to protect the body from harmful substances, warning you to avoid eating or drinking something that could be harmful.
Is nausea a symptom of perimenopause?
Nausea isn’t a direct symptom of perimenopause or menopause. But many changes during this time can cause nausea. Hormonal fluctuations can affect your digestive system, causing nausea or discomfort.
However, not everyone experiences nausea during perimenopause. And the severity can vary from mild, occasional discomfort to more frequent and intense episodes.
Common causes of nausea during menopause
Nausea during menopause can be triggered by several factors. Understanding these causes can help you take proactive steps to manage and alleviate this uncomfortable symptom.
- Diet. Fatty foods may be more likely to upset your stomach and make your nausea worse. Opting for a diet rich in whole foods, lean proteins, and fiber can help.
- Medications and supplements. Side effects of some treatments (for menopause and other conditions) can include nausea. Always discuss new treatments with your healthcare provider.
- Lifestyle factors. Poor sleep can make nausea worse. Do your best to get enough rest to help you manage your nausea.
Understanding these common triggers can help you take charge and manage nausea during menopause, making the menopause transition smoother and more comfortable.
Is it pregnancy or perimenopause?
During perimenopause, most people are still getting a period, even if it’s an irregular period. While it may be less likely, if you’re still getting a period, you can still get pregnant.
And many of us are aware that nausea can be a part of pregnancy, especially in the first trimester. So how can you tell whether it’s perimenopause nausea or morning sickness?
- Pay attention to other symptoms. Each person’s experience of pregnancy and perimenopause is unique. Yet there are certain symptoms that can help distinguish between the two. Perimenopause might cause symptoms like hot flashes, trouble sleeping, and dry skin. Pregnancy may come with symptoms like extreme fatigue, frequent urination, and food cravings or aversions.
- Take a pregnancy test. If you think you’re pregnant, consider taking a pregnancy test as a good way to find out. Talk to your doctor if you think you might be pregnant.
Treatments and management of nausea
Now that we’ve covered the common causes of nausea during menopause and perimenopause, let’s look at some ways to manage the discomfort and find some perimenopause nausea relief.
- Eat smaller, more frequent meals. This can help ease feelings of nausea. Some people may also find a low-fat, low-fiber diet helpful.
- Avoid foods that increase your nausea. Pay attention to which foods make you feel worse. Common triggers include high-fat dairy products, high-sugar foods, fried or greasy foods, and drinks with alcohol or caffeine.
- Hydration. Drinking water throughout the day can help move waste through your digestive system more efficiently.
- Natural remedies. Ginger and peppermint oil may be effective natural remedies for nausea. Ginger can be enjoyed in tea, capsules, or even fresh. Peppermint oil can be inhaled through aromatherapy.
- Antinausea medications. Antinausea drugs (antiemetics) can be effective, especially when nausea is severe or paired with other symptoms like experiencing dizziness. You can get these medications by prescription and over the counter.
When to seek medical advice for menopause nausea
While many people find relief through lifestyle tweaks and natural remedies, severe or prolonged nausea warrants a visit to a healthcare provider. Persistent nausea isn’t something to brush off. It can signal underlying issues that need attention.
If you experience nausea along with other symptoms like severe abdominal pain, a severe headache, or a stiff neck, it’s important to get a medical evaluation immediately. Your healthcare provider can help diagnose any underlying conditions and offer personalized treatment options.
FAQs
What is nausea?
Nausea is a queasy, uneasy sensation in your stomach. It can be a mild, fleeting discomfort or a more intense, persistent issue. Various factors, including motion sickness, food poisoning, and hormonal changes can trigger it. Nausea is thought to be a way to protect the body from harmful substances.
Is nausea a symptom of perimenopause?
Hormonal shifts can affect the digestive system, but nausea isn’t a specific symptom of perimenopause or menopause. Not everyone experiences nausea during perimenopause, and the severity can vary from mild, occasional discomfort to more frequent and intense episodes.
What are the common causes of nausea during menopause?
Nausea during menopause can be triggered by several factors, including diet, medications and supplements, and lifestyle factors.
