When we talk about menopause, most of the conversation tends to (understandably) focus on changes that have a significant impact on day-to-day life – such as hot flushes, sleep disruption, and mood changes.
But there’s another, often overlooked area of health that can be affected during this stage of life, your veins.
At Premier Veins, we regularly speak to and treat women who are surprised to learn that hormonal changes during menopause can increase the risk of developing varicose veins.
Why does menopause affect your veins?
Varicose veins develop when the small valves inside your veins stop working as effectively as they should. These valves are responsible for helping blood flow back up towards the heart.
Over time, and particularly with hormonal changes, the walls of the veins can become weaker and less elastic. This makes it harder for the valves to do their job, allowing blood to pool in the veins and causing them to swell, twist, and become more visible.
During menopause, fluctuating hormone levels – particularly oestrogen – can contribute to this process. Oestrogen contributes to regulating the elasticity and tone of the vein walls, but particularly high or fluctuating levels can compromise this and lead to more relaxed blood vessel walls and an increased risk of varicose veins.
It’s one of the reasons why varicose veins are so common in women over 50, with a significant proportion experiencing symptoms at some stage.
Signs to look out for
Varicose veins aren’t always just a cosmetic concern. For many women, they can cause ongoing discomfort that affects day-to-day life.
Common symptoms include:
● Aching or heavy legs
● Swelling in the ankles and feet
● Throbbing or itching around visible veins
● Restless legs, particularly at night
● Muscle cramps
● Dry or irritated skin around the affected area
If you’ve noticed any of these changes, it’s worth considering speaking to a medical professional, such as the experts at Premier Veins, especially if symptoms are becoming more frequent or uncomfortable.
Simple ways to support your vein health
The good news is that small, consistent lifestyle changes can make a real difference in supporting circulation and reducing pressure on your veins.
Keep moving
Regular movement helps blood flow more efficiently through the legs. Walking, swimming, cycling, or gentle yoga are all great options. Movement can also help to relieve symptoms of menopause that affect both your body and mind – such as anxiety, sleep quality, joint pain, and brain fog.
Avoid staying in one position for too long
Whether you sit at a desk or spend long hours on your feet, try to move regularly. Even a short break every 30–60 minutes can help.
Elevate your legs when you can
Raising your legs slightly above heart level for short periods supports healthy circulation and relieves pressure.
Consider compression stockings
These gently support the veins and can help reduce swelling and discomfort, particularly if you’re on your feet a lot.
When to consider treatment
There’s still a common misconception that treating varicose veins is done for purely cosmetic reasons – but that’s not the full picture. Left untreated, they can progress and lead to more serious issues such as chronic pain, skin changes, or even leg ulcers.
The good news is that modern varicose vein treatments are far more straightforward than many people expect.
At Premier Veins, we offer minimally invasive procedures such as:
● Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA)
● Ultrasound-Guided Foam Sclerotherapy (UGFS)
These treatments are performed in a clinical setting, don’t require a hospital stay, and most patients are back on their feet and resuming normal activities within a couple of hours.
A more proactive approach to vein health
For many years, women’s health concerns, particularly around menopause, have been minimised or dismissed. While vein health is no exception, the good news is that this is starting to change.
Understanding the link between menopause and varicose veins allows women to take a more proactive approach, whether that’s making small lifestyle changes, monitoring symptoms, or seeking expert advice earlier.
Expert care you can trust
Founded by experienced vascular specialists with strong NHS and research backgrounds, Premier Veins has been delivering consultant-led, personalised vein care since 2012.
Our focus is simple: combining clinical expertise with a supportive, patient-first approach to help you feel comfortable, confident, and well-informed every step of the way.
If you’re experiencing symptoms of varicose veins or would like advice tailored to you, you can learn more or book a consultation.