Common Signs and Symptoms of Menopause

Estimated reading time: 7 minutes

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Menopause is often diagnosed after a woman has gone 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period. However, the transition into menopause, known as perimenopause, can begin several years before the final menstrual period. Perimenopause consists of irregular menstrual cycles and fluctuating hormone levels, leading to a range of symptoms typically associated with menopause. 

7 Signs of Menopause 

Menopause is a natural phase in a woman's life that typically occurs in their late 40s or early 50s, marking the end of reproductive years. During this transitional period, a woman's body undergoes a series of hormonal and physiological changes, leading to various physical and emotional symptoms.

Inconsistent Periods

One of the first signs of perimenopause is irregular menstrual cycles. Women may experience shorter or longer cycles, heavier or lighter periods, and sometimes missed periods. This variability can be frustrating and may make it difficult to predict when and if a period will happen.

Hot Flashes

Hot flashes are also a common and often well-known symptom of menopause. They involve a sudden sensation of heat that spreads across the upper body and face. Hot flashes can be accompanied by sweating and a rapid heartbeat. They can be triggered by various factors, such as stress, spicy foods, and alcohol, and can be particularly disruptive to a woman's daily life.

Night Sweats

Night sweats are similar to hot flashes but occur during sleep, often leading to disrupted sleep patterns. The combination of hot flashes and night sweats can result in chronic sleep disturbances and fatigue.

Foggy Brain

Some women report cognitive changes during menopause, such as memory problems and difficulty concentrating. These changes can be subtle but are a concern for some. Engaging in mental exercises, staying socially active, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help support cognitive health.

Itch, Dry Skin and Hair Changes

Menopause can lead to changes in the skin and hair. Skin may become drier, and some women may notice thinning hair or changes in hair texture. Skin and hair changes can affect a woman's self-esteem. Proper skincare and hair care routines can help mitigate these effects and boost confidence.

Hormone Fluctuations

Hormonal fluctuations during menopause can affect a woman's mood and emotional well-being. Many women report mood swings, irritability, and feelings of anxiety or depression during this time. t's essential for women to seek support from healthcare professionals or therapists to manage these emotional changes effectively.

Lower Sex Drive

Changes in hormone levels can also lead to a decrease in sexual desire and libido for some women. Vaginal dryness and discomfort can make sexual intercourse less enjoyable. Open communication with a partner and seeking medical advice for solutions can help maintain a satisfying sex life. 

The decrease in estrogen levels during menopause can lead to changes in the vaginal tissue. This can cause vaginal dryness, itching, and discomfort, as well as an increased risk of urinary tract infections.

Weight Gain and Loss of Bone Density

Many women experience weight gain during menopause. This can be due to a combination of factors, including hormonal changes, a slowing metabolism, and lifestyle changes. The decline in estrogen levels can also affect bone health. Women may experience a loss of bone density, increasing their risk of osteoporosis and fractures. 

Managing Menopausal Symptoms

While menopause is a natural phase of life, there are various strategies and treatments available to help manage its symptoms and reduce their impact on a woman's body and overall well-being. 

• Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): HRT involves replacing the hormones (usually estrogen and progesterone) that decline during menopause. It can effectively alleviate many menopausal symptoms. However, it's essential to discuss the benefits and risks of HRT with a healthcare provider, as it may not be suitable for everyone. 
• Lifestyle Changes: A healthy lifestyle can significantly impact how a woman experiences menopause. This includes maintaining a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress management, and adequate sleep. 
• Supplements: Calcium and vitamin D supplements can support bone health, while phytoestrogens found in some foods may help alleviate hot flashes and other symptoms. For vaginal dryness and discomfort, over-the-counter vaginal moisturizers and lubricants can provide relief during sexual activity. 
• Regular Check-ups and Medications: There are non-hormonal prescription medications available to manage hot flashes and mood swings. Women should continue to receive regular check-ups and screenings for conditions like osteoporosis, heart disease, and breast cancer, as they may have increased risks during and after menopause. 

Menopause FAQ with Dr. Saru

We asked Dr. Saru Bala some of the frequently asked questions we have seen lately. Dr. Saru Bala is a naturopathic physician specializing in women's hormonal and period health. She focuses on regulating hormones through nutrition, lifestyle changes, supplements, and other integrative methods. With the lack of education and awareness around female health and hormones, Dr. Bala's goal is educate women about their hormones and alternative solutions to birth control for their period problems.

If your question wasn't answered, ask in the WomenLikeMe group!

 I am worried about what’s coming with menopause, can you give any advice or guidance?

Menopause is a natural transition, but it can bring some uncomfortable changes. The best approach is being proactive:

• Track your symptoms – Understanding your cycle, sleep patterns, mood, and energy levels can help you anticipate changes.
• Prioritize lifestyle support – A balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management make a huge difference in how you experience menopause.
• Know your options – There are many ways to support your body through this transition, from hormone replacement therapy (HRT) to natural approaches like adaptogens, phytoestrogens, and lifestyle changes.
• Have a support system – Talk with your doctor, join menopause-focused communities, like WomenLikeMe, and don’t be afraid to advocate for your health.

There’s conflicting advice on supplements for menopausal symptoms out there. What would you say is the general rule of thumb?

• Start with lifestyle (nutrition, sleep, stress reduction) before adding supplements.
• Look at research-backed options – Some herbs and nutrients have solid evidence for menopausal support, including magnesium (for sleep/anxiety), ashwagandha (for stress/adrenal support), black cohosh (for hot flashes), and omega-3s (for mood and inflammation).
• Choose high-quality, third-party tested supplements to avoid fillers and contaminants.
• Personalize your approach – Your symptoms may require different solutions than someone else’s.

Is there such a thing as starting HRT too early?

Yes, timing matters with HRT. The best window for starting HRT is typically within 10 years of menopause onset (or under age 60) to get cardiovascular and bone benefits.

• Starting too early (before symptoms begin) may not be necessary.
• Starting too late (after 60+) may have risks for heart health.

Always work with a knowledgeable doctor to evaluate your personal risk factors.

[Awkward question] Is it normal to have an itchy labia?

Yes, vaginal and vulvar itching is common in menopause due to low estrogen levels leading to thinning, dryness, and increased sensitivity. This is known as genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM).

• Use vaginal moisturizers (like hyaluronic acid-based or vitamin E creams).
• Consider vaginal estrogen (low-dose estriol or estradiol creams) if dryness is severe.
• Avoid irritating soaps, fragrances, and tight clothing.

Why does brain fog happen? It feels like when I was pregnant.

Hormonal shifts affect neurotransmitters and brain energy metabolism, leading to brain fog. Like pregnancy, estrogen fluctuations impact memory, focus, and word recall because estrogen helps regulate acetylcholine (a brain chemical linked to cognition).

• Blood sugar stability, sleep, omega-3s, and magnesium can all support brain function.
• Hormonal therapy can help some women regain clarity if symptoms are severe.

Are hormone tests accurate in diagnosing perimenopause or menopause?

Are hormone tests accurate in diagnosing perimenopause or menopause?

Hormone levels fluctuate hour by hour, day by day, making single hormone tests unreliable for diagnosing perimenopause. Instead, tracking symptoms + cycle changes over time is the best diagnostic tool.

• FSH levels over 30 IU/L MAY indicate menopause, but they fluctuate in perimenopause. 
• Chat with your provider about whether or not you may be in menopause and what other tests can confirm this for you.

End The Stigma & Join The Conversation

Menopause is a natural phase of a woman's life that brings about significant changes in the body and overall well-being. However it is not talked about enough. Understanding the signs and symptoms of menopause helps give you the power to navigate this transitional period effectively! By proactively reaching out for support from healthcare professionals and incorporating lifestyle changes and treatments, managing menopause symptoms won't feel as dreadful. Menopause is not the end of a woman's journey but the beginning of a new and exciting chapter. 

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