Lipoedema and Menopause: How Hormonal Changes Affect Fat Accumulation and What to Do About It
Lipoedema is a chronic condition that leads to the abnormal accumulation of fat, primarily in the legs, hips, arms, and buttocks. While it typically develops during puberty, pregnancy, or other hormonal shifts, many women notice lipoedema symptoms worsening during menopause. For some, lipoedema may even first appear after menopause. The hormonal fluctuations that occur during this stage of life can exacerbate fat accumulation and inflammation, making it essential to understand the connection between menopause and lipoedema and how to manage symptoms effectively.
How Does Menopause Affect Lipoedema?
Menopause brings significant changes to hormone levels, particularly oestrogen and progesterone, which play a key role in fat distribution and inflammation regulation.
1. Oestrogen Decline and Fat Redistribution
Oestrogen helps regulate fat metabolism and inflammation. As menopause approaches, oestrogen levels drop, leading to increased fat storage, particularly in the lower body. This hormonal shift can worsen existing lipoedema symptoms or trigger the development of lipoedema in women who previously showed no signs of the condition. Some women may only experience lipoedema symptoms for the first time after menopause, likely due to a combination of hormonal decline, metabolic changes, and increased inflammation.
2. Increased Inflammation
Lipoedema is linked to chronic inflammation in the fat cells, and menopause can worsen this due to metabolic changes and hormonal imbalances. Inflammation contributes to pain, tenderness, and swelling, making lipoedema more difficult to manage. Elevated cortisol levels during menopause can further exacerbate inflammation by increasing fat storage, impairing lymphatic drainage, and weakening collagen production. This can result in more pronounced swelling, discomfort, and tissue damage in lipoedema patients.
3. Reduced Collagen Production and Skin Elasticity
Menopause reduces collagen levels, affecting skin elasticity and connective tissue strength. As a result, lipoedema-affected areas may become more prone to bruising, sagging, and a dimpled skin appearance, which is often mistaken for cellulite.
Lipoedema and Menopause: Managing Lipoedema Symptoms During Menopause
While menopause can intensify lipoedema, early intervention and lifestyle adjustments can help manage symptoms effectively.
1. Maintain an Anti-Inflammatory Diet
Eating nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory foods can help reduce swelling and improve overall health. Key dietary recommendations include:
- Increase omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts) to combat inflammation.
- Reduce processed foods, sugar, and refined carbohydrates, which can exacerbate swelling and fat accumulation.
- Stay hydrated to support lymphatic function and reduce fluid retention.
2. Engage in Low-Impact Exercise
Exercise helps improve circulation, lymphatic drainage, and muscle tone, but high-impact workouts can worsen symptoms. Ideal activities include:
- Swimming and water aerobics (reduce pressure on joints and improve lymphatic flow)
- Walking (gentle movement to encourage circulation)
- Rebounding (mini trampoline) (stimulates the lymphatic system)
- Yoga and Pilates (improve flexibility and muscle tone without straining the joints)
3. Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) and Compression Therapy
- MLD massage: A specialised massage technique that encourages lymphatic drainage and reduces swelling.
- Compression garments: Wearing compression leggings or sleeves helps support the tissues and prevent further swelling.
4. Hormonal Balance and Supplements
Hormonal therapies may help stabilise symptoms by addressing the hormonal imbalances that contribute to lipoedema progression. Options to discuss with a healthcare provider include:
- Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): A conventional approach that can help restore oestrogen levels and alleviate menopausal symptoms.
- Bioidentical Hormone Therapy (BHT): A more natural alternative that uses plant-based hormones structurally identical to those the body produces.
- Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT): Specifically designed to manage menopausal symptoms while addressing hormonal fluctuations.
- Key supplements such as vitamin D, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids, which support hormone balance and reduce inflammation.
For some women, hormone therapy can help stabilise symptoms and slow down the progression of lipoedema after menopause. However, it’s important to consult a specialist to determine the most suitable approach based on individual health needs.
5. Seek Specialist Advice
If lipoedema symptoms worsen during menopause, consulting a lipoedema specialist, lymphoedema therapist, or vascular expert is essential for personalised treatment options.
A final word…
The hormonal changes of menopause can intensify lipoedema symptoms or even trigger its onset. However, with the right approach (including diet, exercise, lymphatic support, and medical guidance) symptoms can be managed effectively. Raising awareness and seeking early intervention is key to improving quality of life during menopause and beyond.
We hope this information is useful for you. If you need advice or have any questions about our treatments, please contact us. You can find us in Mill Hill Broadway and Islington. We are always happy to help. If you like this blog, please share!
References:
https://lipoedema.co.uk/about-lipoedema/
https://www.bupa.co.uk/health-information/womens-health/lipoedema
