Anyone quit during menopause?

[Neese0808]

I was wondering if any ladies noticed an increase in menopause symptoms after quitting? I know that hot flashes and night sweats are common in quitting, but mine seem to be getting worse (3+ months out). I am trying to find a reason for my ongoing insomnia and think there might be a link. 

Thoughts? 

[Dr_Ebbert]

The relationship between menopausal symptoms and smoking cessation is a complex one, as both can have significant impacts on a woman’s health and well-being. Smoking cessation is associated with nicotine withdrawal symptoms and can worsen menopausal symptoms. On the other hand, menopause can bring about a range of symptoms that may influence a woman’s decision to quit smoking or her success in doing so. It’s important to consider that smoking cessation can lead to improvements in overall health, which may positively impact menopausal symptoms. However, the withdrawal process and the stress of quitting smoking could temporarily worsen these symptoms. It’s advisable to approach smoking cessation with a comprehensive plan that considers the potential impact on menopausal symptoms and includes strategies to manage them effectively.

[Barbscloud]

@Dr_Ebbert Thank you for this response.  I didn't even know where to begin with this question.  I've never seen anything on this topic.  

Maybe you could post this under the Mayo Blog for future reference.

Barb

[Neese0808]

Thank you so much for the reply, Dr. Ebbert. It has been an adventure for sure! I made an appointment with a menopause specialist and look forward to working with her to feel better. 

[Neese0808]

Just wanted to give a quick update.... I saw the specialist yesterday and she confirmed that I am definitely experiencing menopause symptoms. She also mentioned that quitting can sometimes hasten the onset of symptoms and make them worse. 

I kept thinking that my symptoms (hot flashes, night sweats, intense mood swings) were from quitting, but now I understand that it was also due to hormone imbalance. I am waiting on bloodwork and cannot wait to feel better now that I have a better understanding of what is happening. 

So ladies that are menopausal or in perimenopause- don't hesitate to talk with your OB/GYN if you feel a sharp increase in symptoms. Mine happened fast, and I spent a couple months in misery. 

[Barbscloud]

@Neese0808 Glad you got some answers.  Understanding what is happening  makes it easier to cope.  

There are so many unexpected side effects from quitting smoking that I only learned about from quitters here or doing research.   Developing hypothyroidism is one of them.  This happened to me and I didn't understand why I was still feeling bad and continued to gain weight.  I saw my doctor and learned my diagnosis on  my one year anniversary .

 Keep moving forward one day at a time.

Barb