The True Costs of Menopause

The True Costs of Menopause: How Much Does it Really Take to Feel Like Yourself Again?

Jenna Perkins

November 6, 2024

Menopause is often discussed in terms of hot flashes and hormone changes, but there’s a lot more going on beneath the surface—and your wallet feels it. This transition can take a toll on everything from mental health to skincare, from productivity at work to managing weight and incontinence. If left unaddressed, the financial and emotional costs of menopause can add up quickly.

At DiscovHER Health, we see firsthand how managing these changes requires time, energy, and money. Let’s break down the hidden expenses menopausal women face so you can better understand where those dollars go—and more importantly, how to reclaim your quality of life.

The True Costs of Managing Menopause

1. Loss of Productivity at Work: The Career Hit

Brain fog, fatigue, and mood swings can interfere with concentration and efficiency. Studies suggest that menopausal symptoms can reduce productivity, leading to lost opportunities or the need for reduced work hours. Whether it’s having to take sick days or missing a chance at that promotion, career momentum can suffer.

Potential cost: $5,000–$15,000/year (lost wages, missed opportunities)

2. Skincare and Anti-Aging: Staying Confident in Your Skin

Menopause brings changes like dry skin, fine lines, and loss of elasticity due to lower estrogen levels. Many women invest in anti-aging products, serums, facials, or treatments like microneedling to maintain their appearance and self-esteem.

Monthly skincare budget: $200–$500
Annual cost: $2,400–$6,000

3. Hair Care: Addressing Thinning and Texture Changes

Hormonal shifts can trigger hair thinning, loss, or changes in texture, requiring new hair products, supplements, or salon treatments to prevent further loss or maintain style.

Monthly hair care budget: $100–$300
Annual cost: $1,200–$3,600

4. Weight Management: Diets, Gyms, and Personal Training

Many women struggle with weight gain due to a slower metabolism post-menopause. Gyms, personal trainers, diet plans, and supplements are often added to the budget to stay in shape.

Gym membership and personal training: $150–$400/month
Diet programs and supplements: $100–200/month
Annual cost: $3,000–$7,200

5. Pelvic Health and Incontinence Care: A Silent Expense

Pelvic health issues like pain, dryness, or incontinence are common during menopause but often overlooked. Many women need specialized treatments such as pelvic floor therapy or use incontinence products like pads or liners regularly.

Pelvic health therapy: $150–$200/session, 6–10 sessions recommended
Incontinence products: $50–$100/month
Annual cost: $2,400–$4,000

6. Mental Health Care: Staying Emotionally Resilient

Anxiety, mood swings, and depression are common during menopause. Therapy, coaching, or medication may become necessary to maintain mental health.

Therapy: $150–$250/session (biweekly or monthly)
Annual cost: $1,800–$6,000

A Sample Menopause Budget: Jennifer Rodriguez’s Experience

Let’s break this down with Jennifer Rodriguez, one of our client avatars. Jennifer is 36, an executive balancing a busy career with frequent travel. While she’s still a few years away from full menopause, she already experiences hormone changes that impact her skin, hair, mood, and weight. Here’s a sample of her monthly budget managing her symptoms:

Category	Cost per Month	Annual Cost
Skincare (serums, facials)	$300	$3,600
Hair care (products, treatments)	$150	$1,800
Gym + Diet Plans	$300	$3,600
Mental Health Therapy	$200 (1 session/month)	$2,400
Pelvic Health (therapy, products)	$250	$3,000
Missed Work Opportunities	$500 (productivity loss)	$6,000
Incontinence Pads	$75	$900

Total Annual Cost: $21,300
Total Monthly Cost: $1,775

Jennifer’s story is not unique. Women like her are facing real costs—both financial and emotional—while managing menopause. For high-performing women balancing careers and personal well-being, these numbers can add up quickly.

How to Make Menopause More Manageable and Affordable

While the financial burden of menopause is real, the good news is that with the right healthcare partner, these challenges can be managed more efficiently. At DiscovHER Health, we offer comprehensive, personalized care to reduce these expenses through a combination of:

Pelvic Health Programs: Addressing incontinence and discomfort at the root.
Weight Management Programs: Tailored plans that focus on hormonal balance.
Mental Health Support: Virtual sessions available to fit your busy schedule.
Skincare Services and Products: Expert advice to streamline your regimen.

With DiscovHER Health, you get the care, education, and resources you need to take back control of your health and budget without sacrificing your well-being.

Final Thoughts: Planning Ahead Saves More Than Money

Navigating menopause is a long-term journey that requires investment—not just in your body, but in your mental health and lifestyle. Knowing the true costs ahead of time can help you plan better and avoid unnecessary stress. With a strategic healthcare partner, these costs become manageable, and you’ll feel empowered every step of the way.

Don’t let the hidden costs of menopause catch you off guard. Schedule a consultation with DiscovHER Health today and discover smarter ways to manage your journey with confidence.

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About Us

Jenna Perkins is a board certified Women’s Health and Gender Related Nurse Practitioner with extensive knowledge and experience in Urogynecology, Pelvic Pain, Sexual Health, and complex Gynecology. She is founder of DiscovHER Health, Northern Virginia’s premier destination for women’s healthcare and expertly curated products.

DiscovHER Health Offers cutting edge treatments

Pelvic Health + Wellness

Skincare | Face + Body

Body Toning + Tightening

Weight Loss Program

Semaglutide Weight Loss Program

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We are located in Alexandria, Virginia and serve patients from all over the Mid-Atlantic including Washington DC, Alexandria, Baltimore, and Chevy Chase