“There is a connection between menopause and rheumatoid arthritis. Experts don’t agree on the link.”

Menopause occurs when a person doesn’t have their period for 12 consecutive months for no other reason. It naturally occurs around the age of 50, though it can occur earlier or later based on the person.

Some studies and anecdotal evidence suggest that when a person goes through menopause, their RA symptoms get worse.

However, a 2020 study has shown that female reproductive hormones play no role in the development or severity of RA. They also noted that previous studies showed hormones had a protective effect, negative effect, or no effect at all.

Previous studies have shown a connection may exist between menopause and RA. The problem is that the studies haven’t agreed on exactly how or even if menopause has any effect on RA.

In a 2017 review of studies, researchers also noted that the effects of menopause on RA couldn’t be determined. The review noted some of the discrepancies across studies including the following:

  • Several studies show that menopause and RA symptoms occur at the same time.
  • A study showed that early menopause resulted in milder symptoms.
  • There is a correlation between early onset menopause and the start of the RA.
  • Some anecdotal studies show that Replacement therapy for hormones. can have a positive impact on symptoms of the disease.

Still, a report published in 2018 indicated that menopause can cause additional or worsening symptoms in people living with RA. The study authors said that hormones may play a protective role in RA but also noted that additional research is needed to fully show or understand the connection.

Another study published in 2017 also noted that several hormone factors in women, including early onset and postmenopause onset, play a role in RA development and worsening. However, like other studies, they noted that additional research is needed to fully show and prove the connection between female hormones and RA.

“You can take steps to manage the symptoms of both menopause and RA. Treatments that help with menopause may help with the symptoms of the disease, but this isn’t always the case.”

Treatments for menopause often include more than one.

  • Birth control with low dose hormones.
  • Nonhormonal medication is not ahormonal.
  • Over the counter or prescription products can be used to treat vaginal symptoms.
  • The low dose of the drug is called the reuptake inhibitors.
  • Replacement therapy for hormones.

You may find that certain supplements help with menopause symptoms. You can benefit from body and mind practices.

There are other steps you can take to manage menopause symptoms.

  • Regular exercise is what keeps you physically active.
  • Checking bone density on a regular basis.
  • Taking calcium and vitamins.
  • Talking with your healthcare professional about your sexual health needs.
  • Sleeping in a dark, cool room, limiting heavy meals before bed, avoiding bright lights at night, and exercising earlier in the day are some of the things that are practiced good sleep hygiene.

There are some suggestions for managing RA. You can try home-based care.

  • Daily movement and exercise is what you engage in.
  • A healthy diet is what you should be eating.
  • Using supplements.
  • Hot and cold therapy for joints.
  • Using products that are not harmful.

Does hormone therapy have an effect?

“Some evidence suggests that hormone therapy may have an effect on both women’s health.”

According to a 2017 review, studies have shown both positive and negative effects of Replacement therapy for hormones. on RA symptoms. They indicate that more evidence is needed to make any conclusions regarding this treatment option and how it relates to RA.

Before making any changes to your treatment routine, you should talk with your doctor.

“Before adding a supplement to your diet, you should talk with your doctor to make sure it doesn’t interfere with your current treatments.”

If your menopause symptoms get worse, you may want to talk to your doctor. They may be able to recommend additional therapies, make changes to current treatments, or recommend other recommendations.

There is a possibility that menopause and RA share a common connection.

“Data isn’t enough to show whether hormones and menopause have a negative effect, a protective effect, or no effect at all”

If you find your symptoms getting worse during menopause, you should talk to your doctor. They may be able to suggest changes to your treatment.

You can take steps at home, including getting regular exercise, eating a balanced diet, and practicing good sleep hygiene.