Menopause fatigue and “feeling unwell”: why it happens and what to do
 

Menopause fatigue and “feeling unwell”: why it happens and what to do

Many women describe peri-menopause and menopause fatigue as more than just tiredness. It’s a deep, bone-heavy exhaustion that makes even small tasks feel like a mountain. This fatigue can arrive suddenly, last unpredictably, and often comes with feelings of being “off” or “unwell,” even when medical tests look normal.

Hormonal changes play a central role. As oestrogen and progesterone fluctuate, they affect every system -- from how we regulate sleep and mood to how our cells produce energy. When this hormonal rhythm becomes erratic, so does energy production.

Add to that night sweats disrupting sleep, increased stress hormone (cortisol) levels, and midlife responsibilities, and it’s no wonder fatigue feels relentless.

Why It Feels Like You’ve Lost “Your Spark”

It’s not just physical tiredness. Low oestrogen can blunt the brain’s serotonin and dopamine response, the chemicals that keep us motivated and emotionally balanced.

That’s why fatigue can intertwine with mood changes, anxiety, or feeling “flat.”

Many women describe it as a loss of self, not depression in the clinical sense, but a fog that dulls joy, focus, and drive.

Why Does Menopause Cause Fatigue?

  • Hormonal Changes: Falling estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone disrupt your body’s natural sleep cycles and energy balance. Hot flashes and night sweats make quality sleep elusive, leading to “wired-but-tired” days.

  • Mood and Mental Health: Anxiety, low mood, and depression—whether caused directly by hormone shifts or as a reaction to symptoms—can amplify feelings of exhaustion. Managing brain fog and emotional ups and downs drains mental and physical energy. One community member says: “The symptom that I’m having the most trouble with is fatigue. Some days I just find myself exhausted to the point where getting off the couch feels like pulling myself out of quicksand.”

  • Health Barriers: For some, underlying conditions (like thyroid issues), medications, or a medical history that rules out HRT can mean fatigue persists, with fewer traditional solutions available.

  • Lifestyle Disruption: Poor sleep, changes in exercise routine, diet, and hydration, and extra stress (from work, caring, or life) all play their part.

Holistic and Alternative Ways to Restore Energy (Beyond HRT)

If hormone replacement therapy (HRT)isn’t suitable for you — for example due to a history of cancer, side effects, or personal preference— there are evidence-based alternatives that can help restore vitality and mental clarity: 

1. Rebuild sleep quality

Regular bedtimes, screen-free wind-downs, and a cool, dark room can make a remarkable difference. Magnesium, gentle yoga, and mindfulness-based relaxation have also been shown to improve sleep efficiency during menopause.

2. Balance blood sugar and hydration

Energy crashes can mimic hormonal fatigue. A balanced breakfast with protein and slow-release carbs, plus consistent hydration, helps stabilise energy and mood.

3. Support the nervous system naturally

Low-intensity exercise, even a brisk walk, boosts endorphins and supports hormonal balance. Mind-body practices such as breathwork or guided meditation reduce cortisol — the stress hormone that compounds fatigue.

4. Track your symptoms and advocate for yourself

Use a simple journal or app to notice patterns in fatigue, mood, and sleep. Bring this to your GP or menopause specialist — it can help shape tailored care and avoid the frustration of feeling unheard.

5. Supplements

Magnesium and vitamin D3 may help if you’re deficient (consult your GP). Adaptogenic herbs like ashwagandha sometimes support energy, although the research is mixed.

Product Integration: How Yes Can Help When Fatigue and Hormones Interrupt Intimacy and Comfort

When you’re tired, rundown, or feeling “not yourself,” it’s easy for sexual health and daily comfort to slip down your list of priorities. 

Hormonal changes that cause fatigue also affect vaginal and vulval tissue — thinning, dryness, and irritation are extremely common and can add to the sense of feeling “unwell.”

Restoring comfort here isn’t just physical; it helps women feel more like themselves again.

YES® products are designed to gently support your well-being, especially when energy and motivation feel low:

  • YES® VM Vaginal Moisturiser: Rapidly relieves vaginal dryness, reducing irritation and restoring comfort, so you can sleep better and move through your day with less discomfort—even if your energy is low.
    • "Recommended to me by the hospital as a non-hormonal treatment. Great product and quick delivery.”
  • YES® WB Lubricants: Ensure intimacy is pleasurable and pain-free, whether you’re sharing a moment with a partner or focusing on self-care.
    • "Lovely texture and absolutely no irritation, highly recommend for sensitive skin. It’s non-sticky, comfortable and long--lasting”
  • YES® CLEANSE: Keep your intimate area gently cleansed, with a pH-matched formula that won’t cause irritation—even when hormonal shifts make your body feel unpredictable.
    • "I used to struggle with soreness before I discovered this intimate wash. No problems at all since using it, couldn’t be without it. It keeps me fresh all day.”

Recommended by healthcare professionals and loved by women at all stages of menopause, all Yes products are certified organic, hormone-free, and trusted for daily use.

The Takeaway

Menopause fatigue isn’t “just in your head.” It’s your body adjusting to profound hormonal change, and it deserves care, not dismissal.

With rest, balanced nutrition, and gentle self-care, supported by products designed to work with your body, it’s possible to regain your energy, confidence, and sense of self.