INTIMINA, a prominent Swedish brand in women’s intimate health, has launched its latest products: two hormone-supporting supplements named ‘Balance’ and ‘Clear’. These new offerings aim to assist women in maintaining a balanced and healthy lifestyle, aligning with INTIMINA’s mission to provide a comprehensive range of medically informed products for women at every stage of life.
A Closer Look at INTIMINA’s New Supplements
Jo Travers, INTIMINA’s medical expert and a seasoned dietitian and nutritionist, highlighted the benefits of the Balance supplement. She explained, “B vitamins play a really important role in so many cellular functions, and this can affect everything from mood, energy levels and behavior and nerve function, to the synthesis of hormones and neurotransmitters. Folic acid and other B vitamins help to regulate concentrations of an amino acid called homocysteine. Too much homocysteine is implicated in cardiovascular health and also is thought to be involved in fertility problems in PCOS. High homocysteine is also linked with missed ovulation, so controlling levels of this amino acid with these vitamins could help to regulate periods. Homocysteine is also important once menopause kicks in when the risk of developing cardiovascular disease increases. Mood disorders and cognitive issues like ‘brain fog’ during perimenopause and beyond may be worsened by a lack of B vitamins and helped by supplementing with them.
“Red clover is beneficial during perimenopause and menopause because of its isoflavone content. Isoflavones are a type of polyphenol which can help relieve vaginal dryness, improve blood fats and may also help keep skin firm by preventing collagen breakdown. Biotin is involved with keeping skin healthy, too. Sleep, at every life stage, is the bedrock of good health. Still, magnesium supplementation has been shown to improve sleep quality and duration if someone finds it hard to switch off and get their head down. Magnesium is found in every cell in the body. It is used in hundreds of biochemical processes, including nerve and muscle function, energy use, and especially in bone strength, which is critical in bone remodeling.”
The Clear supplement is designed to support urinary health, containing D-mannose, cranberry extract, and vitamin C. Travers pointed out the benefits of these ingredients in preventing UTIs: “Most UTIs are treated with antibiotics, which unfortunately also kill beneficial bacteria, disrupting the gut microbiome. Preventing UTIs with supplements like Vitamin C, D-Mannose, and cranberry extract can be more effective than treating them after they occur.”
Understanding Menstrual Cycle Changes
Adolescence is marked by irregular cycles as young girls, typically starting menstruation around age 12, experience variations in cycle length. By their 20s, women generally have more regular cycles and are at their peak fertility. In their 30s, while still fertile, women may begin to notice premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms. The 40s usher in perimenopause, characterized by irregular cycles and symptoms such as hot flashes and mood swings. By the 50s, most women reach menopause, defined by the absence of menstruation for 12 consecutive months.
The Role of Hormones
These menstrual changes are driven by fluctuations in estrogen and progesterone, the primary sex hormones produced by the ovaries, along with luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) from the brain.
Maintaining Balance
A healthy lifestyle, including nutritious eating and regular exercise, can help manage symptoms and support hormonal balance throughout these changes. Maintaining balance is key to overall well-being.