9 Surprising Menopause Symptoms (and what to do about them)

Is It Hot In Here? Midlife Podcast

January 26, 2026 ∙ 14 mins
Episode 11

About

Nobody warns you about half of the symptoms that come with menopause.


In this solo episode, Dr Naomi Potter talks through some of the more surprising, and often unspoken, symptoms women experience during perimenopause and menopause. The ones that don’t always make it onto the usual checklists, but regularly show up in clinic.


From itchy ears and tinnitus to heart palpitations, sudden bladder urgency and even unexpected changes in libido, Naomi explains why these symptoms happen, how hormones influence them, and when to seek reassurance or support.


Oestrgoen affects every organ system in the body, so it's not surprising that menopause can show up in various weird and wonderful ways. If you’ve ever felt confused, worried, or brushed off because a symptom didn’t seem 'menopausal enough', this episode is for you. You’re not imagining it – and you’re certainly not alone.


Follow Is It Hot In Here? on Instagram at @podcast_naomipotter


Follow Dr Naomi Potter:

Naomi’s Instagram: @dr_naomipotter

Naomi’s TikTok: @dr_naomipotter


More info and menopause support at: https://www.menopausecare.co.uk/


00:00 – Surprising menopause symptoms nobody warns you about

00:22 – Is tinnitus a sign of menopause? Ringing ears explained

01:24 – Are itchy ears linked to perimenopause and menopause?

02:50 – What is lightning fanny? Sharp vaginal pains in menopause

04:21 – Can menopause cause a sudden increase in libido?

05:26 – Burning mouth syndrome and menopause: what to know

07:13 – Body odour changes in menopause: why you smell different

08:25 – New allergies and sensitivities during menopause

10:54 – Heart palpitations in menopause: when to worry

12:12 – Sudden urinary urgency and menopause explained


#menopause #perimenopause #drnaomipotter

Information

Podcast

Is It Hot In Here? Midlife Podcast

Episode

11

Date

January 26, 2026

Length

14 mins
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