Menopause & Itching: Causes & Treatment

Have you found yourself trying to relax only to be repeatedly distracted by a creepy crawly sensation making its way across your skin? Or been running errands when a persistent itch starts in your genital area, leaving you feeling uncomfortable or even embarrassed?

Well, you aren’t the only one. Itching in menopause is common, with up to 64% of women reporting skin problems (1).

In this article, we explain how the hormonal changes that occur in menopause can give rise to this unpleasant symptom and outline the treatment options that can alleviate it.

Does menopause cause itching?

Clinically known as pruritus, itchy skin in menopause is the result of reduced oestrogen levels. Oestrogen plays a role in the production of collagen, which is the primary building block of your skin. Oestrogen is also involved in the production of your body’s natural oils which keep the skin moisturised and supple.

When oestrogen declines in menopause, so does the amount of collagen and natural oils (2). This can lead to skin which is drier, thinner, less elastic, and more sensitive. When the skin is irritated, the body releases histamine, which causes the brain to signal an itch, which is why itching becomes more prevalent during menopause. There is a type of itch sensation some patients experience that is described like having insects crawling on their skin. This itching sensation is called formication.These changes can also lead to other skin changes including:

Acne
Pigmentation
Wrinkling
Sagging
Rashes
Redness
Poor wound healing (2, 3)

Different types of itching

Menopause itching can occur anywhere, but it is most likely to occur on your:

Face
Neck
Chest
Limbs
Back (2)

Vaginal itching during menopause

Vaginal itching during menopause is a common symptom of vaginal atrophy, a condition caused by reduced oestrogen levels impacting vaginal tissues. Also known as genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM), it can cause additional symptoms such as burning and discomfort during sex or urination.

Menopause and itchy scalp

The scalp can also become itchy during menopause due to the loss of natural oils and reduced skin hydration caused by hormonal changes. This dryness can lead to flakiness, irritation, and even dandruff-like symptoms. Additionally, thinning hair, a common issue in menopause, may worsen scalp sensitivity.

Menopause itching at night

Itching at night can be especially disruptive during menopause. Drier skin, combined with hot flushes or night sweats, can intensify the sensation of itchiness, making it harder to sleep. Stress and anxiety, which often heighten in menopause, can further exacerbate nighttime itching by affecting the body’s histamine response.

Learn more about menopause and sleep disruption.

Can itching be a sign of menopause?

Itching often begins in perimenopause as a result of hormone levels starting to fluctuate, so itching can be a sign of menopause. Many women find it continues after menopause too, with itching being the primary skin concern for women over 65 (4).

However, there are many causes of itchy skin. If the itch is persistent or severe, it’s a good idea to speak to a doctor or pharmacist to rule out or confirm any underlying issues.

Itching during menopause can also be caused by:

Infections including:
- Chickenpox
- Athlete’s foot
- Ringworm
- Thrush
Skin conditions such as:
- Eczema
- Psoriasis
- Rosacea
- Contact dermatitis
- Urticaria (hives)
- Folliculitis
- Lichen planus
Parasites and insects
- Head lice
- Scabies
- Bites
- Stings
- Threadworms
- Trichomonas vaginalis
Health conditions including:
- Kidney disease
- Liver disease
- Anaemia
- Diabetes
- Thyroid problems
- Haemorrhoids
- Polycythaemia
- Certain cancers
Irritation, reaction or allergy from such things as:
- Foods
- Chemicals
- Dyes
- Soaps
- Detergents
- Textiles
- Metals
- Latex
- Cosmetics
- Plants
Certain medications
Mental health conditions such as:
- Anxiety
- Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD)
- Depression
Sunburn
Prickly heat (5, 6)

Everyone’s experience of menopause can be different, with symptoms varying between individuals. Explore our signs of menopause list for more insights.

Can HRT help with itching?

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is an effective treatment for many menopause symptoms. By restoring your body’s oestrogen levels, it can help alleviate menopausal itching and studies have indicated it also has other benefits for the skin including:

Improving thickness
Improving firmness
Reducing pore size
Enhancing skin hydration (7)

If skin itching persists for more than three months after starting HRT, then speak to your prescriber as the type or dosage of HRT may need to be amended.

In very rare cases, it’s possible to have a serious allergic reaction to HRT. You must seek immediate medical attention if you develop an itchy, raised rash that's accompanied by:

Swollen lips, mouth, throat or tongue
Rapid breathing
Wheezing or gasping
Difficulty swallowing
Confusion, dizziness or drowsiness
Blue, grey or pale skin, tongue or lips (9)

Learn more about hormone replacement therapy (HRT).

Treatments and remedies for itching

Itching during menopause can be irritating and inconvenient, disrupting your life and affecting your self-esteem. However, you don’t have to continue to suffer with it. There are a range of treatments and remedies that can reduce menopausal itching or even eradicate it altogether.

Some simple changes can lessen the likelihood of itching, reduce its duration when it does arise and prevent skin damage from scratching:

Moisturise twice daily
Ensure skin is protected with a high SPF daily
Stopping smoking
Keeping well hydrated
Gently patting or tapping your skin instead of scratching
Wearing loose clothes made from cotton or silk
Using a cool compress or damp towel to alleviate itching
Having short, tepid baths or showers
Avoiding soaps that scented and lather, bubble or foam
Using moisturising lotions or emollients as soap substitutes
Ensuring your nails are kept short and clean
Using a laundry powder or liquid that is for sensitive skin (1)

Creams

Topical creams can provide quick relief for menopause-related itching. Many can be purchased over the counter, but a prescription may be required for stronger preparations.

Oily moisturisers or emollients can offer relief if itching is the result of dry or flaky skin.
Mild steroid creams, such as those with 1% hydrocortisone, can soothe inflammation and reduce irritation.
Menthol cream can cool the skin, dampening the itching sensation.

Oatmeal baths

Colloidal oatmeal baths are a gentle, natural remedy to ease itching during menopause. Adding oatmeal to a warm bath can help soothe dry, irritated skin and provide relief for areas prone to itching, such as the chest, back, genitals and limbs. It’s particularly effective for sensitive or inflamed skin as it forms a protective barrier and helps retain moisture (12).

In summary, menopause itching is a common symptom caused by declining oestrogen levels. It can occur anywhere on the skin and ranges in duration and severity between individuals.

However, there are many causes of itching so it’s best to seek professional advice if you’re concerned there might be an underlying issue. If itching is impacting your life, there are a variety of treatment options available.

At Menopause Care, we have doctors who specialise in menopause skin changes, such as Dr Liz Andrew. To be matched with a menopause doctor based on your unique experience of menopause, take our symptoms quiz.

DisclaimerAt Menopause Care, we ensure that everything you read in our blog is medically reviewed and approved. However, the information provided is not meant to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It should not be relied upon for specific medical advice.

References