How Menopause Affects Your Skin, Bones & Muscles

takeaways

1. Perimenopause can begin much earlier than many expect, with the discussion noting hormonal fluctuations from the mid-30s rather than only at the average menopause age of 51.

2. Estrogen receptors are described as being present throughout the body, linking declining and fluctuating hormones to joint and muscle pain, tendon injuries, bone density loss, skin changes and mood shifts.

3. The conversation frames HRT as an individualised decision to discuss with a GP, with the recurring message 'do what you want, but know what you're doing' and make an informed choice.

4. Lifestyle factors were emphasised, particularly protein intake and sleep, which the guest said changed some patients' symptoms by around 60%, alongside strength training and high-impact exercise for muscle and bone.

5. Skin and hair changes during menopause were linked to reduced collagen and elastin, with regenerative aesthetic treatments such as microneedling, exosomes, Profhilo and polynucleotides discussed, plus consistency in skincare and SPF.

6. The two-way relationship between the gut microbiome and estrogen was discussed, along with vaginal estrogen for recurrent UTIs and the wider need for more women's health education and research.

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