Have you noticed an unusual burning sensation lately, but you’re not sure what could be causing it? Perhaps it burns when you pee, or your vagina feels curiously hot all of a sudden. Maybe your mouth is on fire, or your hands and feet feel tingly.
Menopause might be the last thing that springs to mind. But if you’re somewhere between your late 30s and your 50s and your menstrual cycle has started to change, it could suggest that menopause is on the way. This is especially likely if you’ve noticed other telltale symptoms such as mood swings or brain fog.
Experiencing any type of burning sensation can be uncomfortable and maybe even a little alarming if you don’t know what’s causing it. But once you figure out the cause, with the right treatment, it can be manageable. If it turns out to be a signal you’re in the lead-up to menopause (known as perimenopause), remember that there are lots of treatment options depending on your symptoms, so reach out to your doctor for advice.
Perimenopause aside, a burning feeling under the skin may be caused by any number of things, from an insect bite to shingles. Feeling burning in the vulva or vagina might suggest you’ve got an infection, so the best thing to do in any case is to see your health care provider, who can help you find the cause.
If you are on the journey to menopause, read on as Dr. Allison K. Rodgers, reproductive endocrinologist, obstetrician, and gynecologist from Illinois, US, shares everything you need to know. From why a burning sensation can happen at this stage of life to how to deal with it, find out all about one of the lesser-known perimenopause symptoms.