by Pat Lowe

Approximately 70 percent of women who are nearing menopause experience noticeable 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.

The ovaries gradually stop releasing eggs, so ovulation becomes irregular. A woman’s body is no longer as fertile as it was so it will be more difficult to become pregnant. Also, there are more risks involved in becoming pregnant at this stage of life.

One of the early symptoms of menopause is an irregular period. 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.

Other symptoms of menopause include sleeping disorders and an increase in belly fat. Sleeping disorders can lead to depression and exhaustion and need to be monitored by a doctor.

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. Fifty-one is the typical age when this happens.

The symptoms of menopause are usually experienced throughout all the stages of menopause. Unfortunately, some women may suffer with them for the rest of their lives.

Every woman experiences menopause differently. 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. Some of the methods of managing the symptoms include lifestyle changes, pain relievers and hormone therapy.

About the Author:
Do you think you might be starting menopause? If so, you need to know what the symptoms are and how to treat them. Visit the Menopause Symptoms site for the advice you need.

Tagged with: • •