Menopause Nausea: Why Hormonal Changes Make You Feel Queasy

When it comes to menopause symptoms, you might expect sudden hot flushes, sleepless nights, or even the emotional roller-coaster of perimenopause. But morning sickness? Probably not on your menopause bingo card. Yet nausea is one of the sneaky symptoms that can creep up on us perimenopause and menopause. The hormonal shifts in your body can impact your digestive system, leading to discomfort and stomach upset. Let's explore the connection between hormones and nausea during menopause, and how to manage it.

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01

Can Menopause Cause Nausea?

Understanding the Connection Between Hormones and Digestive Health

Both estrogen and progesterone can play a significant role in regulating various bodily functions, including digestion. When these hormone levels start to fluctuate during menopause, it can lead to gastrointestinal problems like nausea, bloating, and even vomiting(1). Estrogen has been studied for its influence on the gut microbiome, the collection of bacteria that helps regulate digestion(2).

How Hormone Levels Affect Digestion

Estrogen levels drop during perimenopause and menopause, which can slow down digestion and contribute to gastrointestinal issues like nausea and bloating. The hormone progesterone, on the other hand, relaxes muscles in the digestive tract. When its levels fluctuate, it can lead to sluggish digestion and make nausea worse(3). These hormonal changes can also affect the way your body processes food, making you more sensitive to certain triggers, including fatty or spicy foods(4).

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02

Common Causes of Perimenopause Nausea and Menopause Nausea

Hormonal Fluctuations and Their Impact on the Gut

The drop in estrogen and progesterone can directly affect your gut health. This hormonal imbalance often leads to slower digestion, which can cause nausea and other gastrointestinal symptoms. Additionally, these hormonal fluctuations can affect the production of bile, further contributing to queasiness(5).

Stress, Cortisol, and Gastrointestinal Distress

Menopause can also increase stress levels, which elevates the stress hormone cortisol. Elevated cortisol can disrupt digestion, leading to nausea, indigestion, and other gastrointestinal issues (6). High cortisol levels are linked to increased sensitivity to acid in the stomach, which can make nausea worse(7).

Other Symptoms That May Trigger Nausea: Hot Flushes, Mood Swings, and Night Sweats

Other menopausal symptoms, such as hot flushes and night sweats, can trigger nausea indirectly. The sudden rush of heat, combined with sweating and dizziness, often makes women feel nauseous (8). Mood swings, another common symptom of menopause, can also contribute to digestive issues and nausea, as stress and anxiety can disrupt the digestive process(9). Stomach cramps associated with perimenopause-related PMS symptoms can also trigger nausea.

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03

How to Manage Menopause-Related Nausea

Healthy Diet and Hydration for Treating Nausea

One of the best ways to manage menopause-related nausea is by making adjustments to your diet. Eating smaller, more frequent meals can help regulate digestion and prevent the stomach from becoming too full, which can cause nausea. Additionally, staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps keep your digestive system functioning properly(10). Avoiding foods that can trigger nausea, such as caffeine, fatty foods, and alcohol, can also help.

Natural Remedies to Relieve Nausea

Several natural remedies can help alleviate nausea. Ginger, for example, has been shown to be highly effective in reducing nausea and vomiting(11). Chamomile tea and peppermint are other natural options known to soothe the stomach and help with nausea. Taking probiotics can also improve gut health and balance the bacteria that assist with digestion(12).

Lifestyle Adjustments: Stress Management and Exercise

Reducing stress is key to managing nausea during menopause. Stress management techniques, like yoga, meditation, and deep breathing exercises, can help lower cortisol levels and improve digestion(13). Regular physical activity also helps reduce nausea by stimulating the digestive system and regulating hormonal imbalances. Even a short walk after meals can aid digestion and reduce symptoms of bloating and nausea(14).

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04

When to See a Doctor About Menopause Nausea

Recognising Severe Symptoms

While experiencing nausea is common during menopause, severe or persistent nausea should not be ignored. Nausea can be extremely unpleasant and should be monitored closely. If you experience nausea accompanied by vomiting, dizziness, or rapid weight loss, seek medical advice. These could be signs of an underlying condition, such as gallbladder issues or gastrointestinal disorders, that need to be investigated(15).

Treatment Options for Ongoing Digestive Issues

If lifestyle changes and natural remedies don’t provide enough relief, your healthcare provider may suggest medications to help manage nausea. Antiemetic medications, which help reduce nausea and vomiting, can be effective in more severe cases. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) may also be recommended to balance hormonal levels and alleviate many menopause symptoms, including nausea(16). It’s important to discuss the benefits and risks of HRT with your doctor, as it may not be suitable for everyone.

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05

Final Thoughts on Menopause and Nausea

Perimenopause nausea and menopause nausea are common, caused by hormonal changes. Fortunately, there are ways to manage it, from making dietary changes to using natural remedies and stress management techniques. If your nausea persists or worsens see a healthcare provider to explore further treatment options. Managing your symptoms through lifestyle changes and medical advice can help you live better during menopause.