Menopause 
Approximately 70% of women will be affected by the signs and symptoms leading up to menopause. Typical menopause signs and symptoms, such as hot flashes and night sweats, are the result of changing hormonal levels in the reproductive system. These symptoms usually last for the entire menopausal transition, but some experience them for the rest of their lives.
Perimenopause Signs and Symptoms
Hormonal fluctuations prompt many of the symptoms associated with menopause. This stage of fluctuating hormone levels is called perimenopause and the age it begins is different for each women. It's possible that perimenopause signs and symptoms can begin 10 to 15 years before menopause actually occurs.
Perimenopause brings with it a variety of physical and mental health symptoms. These signs and symptoms include:
- Hot flashes
- Night sweats
- Irregular periods
- Vaginal dryness
- Mood swings
- Loss of libido
- Disrupted sleeping patterns
- Dry skin
- Hair loss
- Incontinence
The ovaries produce the hormones estrogen and progesterone, which control menstruation and ovulation. When a woman goes through menopause, the ovaries stop functioning and this causes estrogen and progesterone levels to decrease. It's at this time that menopause signs and symptoms begin.
Onset of Menopause Signs and Symptoms
Menopause is a natural transition that women typically go through in their 40s and 50s. When menstrual periods have not occurred for at least one year, menopause is thought to have occurred. This transition in a woman's life marks the end of menstruation and fertility; it also results in the emergence of menopause signs and symptoms.
Common Signs and Symptoms of Menopause
Some of these signs and symptoms are more widespread, such as hot flashes and night sweats, but typically menopause symptoms differ from woman to woman. Below is a list of some of the most common menopause signs and symptoms:
- Hot flashes
- Night sweats
- Poor sleep patterns
- Irregular periods
- Vaginal dryness and itching
- Mood swings
There are a variety of treatments available to manage the unpleasant signs and symptoms of perimenopause. Those looking for a solution to their particular perimenopause symptoms should visit a medical practitioner to discuss their options. Click on the following link for more information about perimenopause treatments.
Sources
- BMJ Group. "Menopause: What is it?" Patient Leaflet. 2007.
- Hopkins, Virginia. Lee, John R. M.D. What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About Menopause. New York: Warner Books Inc., 1996.
- Love, Susan M.D. Menopause and Hormone Book. New York: Three Rivers Press, 2003.
- Martin, Raquel. The Estrogen Alternative. Rochester, VT: Healing Arts Press, 2000.
