Menopause Awareness Month: Your Everyday Guide to Perimenopause, Menopause, and Feeling Like Yourself Again

October is Menopause Awareness Month, and if you’re feeling “off”—with unpredictable periods, skin changes, or those 3 a.m. wake-ups—you might be entering what some call “cougar puberty.” It’s a playful way to describe perimenopause, the hormonal rollercoaster that leads to menopause.
 

Let’s break down what’s happening, how it differs from menopause, and how to relieve vaginal itching, dryness, and microbiome imbalance using science-backed, gentle, and natural-inspired care.

Perimenopause vs Menopause: What’s the Difference?

Think of perimenopause as the opening act and menopause as the main event. During perimenopause, estrogen levels start to fluctuate—often beginning in your 30s or 40s—and can last up to 10 years.

Common perimenopause symptoms include:

• Irregular periods (shorter, longer, heavier, or lighter)
• Hot flashes and night sweats
• Mood swings and brain fog
• Sleep issues
• Vaginal dryness and itching
• Changes in libido or mild weight gain

Menopause is officially diagnosed after 12 months without a period. Even after that milestone, vaginal dryness, itching, and pH imbalance can persist as estrogen continues to decline.

Signs of Perimenopause: What to Watch For

• Irregular cycles or skipped periods
• Hot flashes and night sweats
• Mood changes or anxiety
• Trouble sleeping
• Vaginal itching, burning, or dryness
• Urinary urgency or more frequent UTIs

You’re not alone—many women start noticing these signs as early as their mid-30s. Because symptoms overlap with other conditions, it’s always smart to check with your doctor to confirm what’s happening.

How to Help Stop Perimenopause Itching and Support Your Microbiome

As estrogen drops, many women notice itching, dryness, or discomfort. These changes can affect your vaginal microbiome—the community of good bacteria that keeps things balanced and comfortable.

Science-backed relief tips:

• Use a gentle, pH-balanced wash: Harsh soaps can disrupt pH and cause more irritation. Look for a wash with prebiotics or postbiotics to nourish good bacteria and restore comfort.
• Try daily wipes for freshness: Especially helpful after workouts or during heat/humidity.
• Add probiotic supplements: Support vaginal and urinary health from within—especially during hormonal changes.
• Hydrate and avoid irritants: Stay hydrated and skip harsh soaps.
   

Probiotics for Perimenopause: Gentle, Science-Backed Support

Research shows that probiotics can support vaginal health by promoting a balanced microbiome and helping reduce itching, odor, and dryness.

They’re especially helpful for menopause and perimenopause itching, when estrogen decline changes pH and bacterial balance.

Everyday Expert Product Pairings from Vagisil^®

1. Menopause Support Probiotic Oral Supplements

• Clinically proven probiotics for vaginal balance
• Supports urinary tract health and healthy pH
• Non-GMO, gluten- and dairy-free
• Take one daily for ongoing microbiome support
  
   

Learn more >

2. Menopause Support Probiotic Mousse Wash

• Designed for pre- and post-menopausal women
• Cleanses gently while supporting the microbiome
• Soothes dryness and irritation 
   

Learn more >

The Bottom Line

Menopause and perimenopause are natural transitions—but you don’t have to tolerate discomfort.

By understanding the difference between perimenopause vs menopause, recognizing signs like vaginal dryness or itching, and supporting your vaginal microbiome with gentle, science-based probiotics and pH-balanced care, you can stay comfortable and confident every day.

Your body is never wrong for how it feels.

Vagisil is here with expert-backed, natural-inspired solutions to help you feel like yourself again.
 

References
- Mayo Clinic: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/menopause/symptoms-causes/syc-20353397
- Healthline: https://www.healthline.com/health/menopause/difference-perimenopause
- WebMD: https://www.webmd.com/menopause/guide/menopause-overview-facts
- Vagisil Blog: https://www.vagisil.com/blog/article/menopause-relief
- Vagisil Products: https://www.vagisil.com