Almost three quarters of women who are about to start the transition to menopause notice some kinds of symptoms. Menopause symptoms are a result of changing hormonal levels. This is in preparation for the shutdown of the female reproduction system. As hormone production decreases, most women will start to have symptoms even if their periods haven't stopped.
Women generally begin to experience the first signs of menopause anywhere between their late 30s and early 40s. This is the time when a woman's body cuts down on the production of progesterone and estrogen. This stage of menopause is known as perimenopause.
Ovulation becomes sporadic because the ovaries stop releasing eggs. It's harder for a woman to become pregnant at this time because she becomes less fertile. Also, there are more risks involved in becoming pregnant at this stage of life.
An irregular period is the most noticeable early warning that menopause is near. The flow will be either considerably lighter or heavier than it has been historically.
Another indication of menopause is mood swings. This condition might require prescription medications for depression.
As well, women often experience hot flashes. It's a surge of heat throughout the body that appears without warning, frequently during the night. The face will become red and she will break out in a sweat.
Excess abdominal fat and sleeping disorders are also signs of menopause. Exhaustion and depression are often the result of a sleeping disorder, so get the advice of a doctor to manage the problem.
Some women also experience a diminished sex drive and vaginal dryness. Other signs of menopause are thinning hair and falling breasts.
In a woman's 40s, these symptoms become more pronounced. As she reaches her early 50s, the process is usually complete. Once a woman has made it through a full year without having a period, she has officially reached menopause. The average age for this is 51.
Symptoms are usually experienced throughout all the stages of menopause. Unfortunately, some women may suffer with them for the rest of their lives.
Menopause is a unique experience for each woman. Some will hardly notice that it's happening. Other women will experience symptoms that interfere with their daily lives.
Visit your doctor if you think you've started menopause. They will be able to give you advice on managing your menopausal symptoms. There are numerous ways to ease the symptoms, including pain relievers, lifestyle modification and hormone therapy.
