How to Identify the Signs of Menopause

By Kim Allarie

Approximately 70 percent of women who are approaching menopause have noticeable symptoms which are a consequence of changing hormonal levels. This is in preparation for the shutdown of the female reproduction system. As hormone production decreases, most women will begin to have symptoms even if their periods have not stopped. Following are the signs of menopause that you should be aware of.

Women generally start 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 during this time since she becomes less fertile. Furthermore, pregnancy throughout this time has more risk linked to it.

Among the early symptoms of menopause is an irregular period. Normally the flow is either much lighter or much heavier than the woman has experienced up till then. Mood swings are also a sign of menopause. You might need to take antidepressant drugs to alleviate the problem.

Additionally, women frequently experience hot flashes. This is like a wave of heat that passes through her body at unexpected times, often while sleeping. Her face will become red and she will break out in a sweat. Other signs of menopause consist of sleeping disorders and an increase in abdominal fat. Sleeping disorders can result in exhaustion and depression and must be monitored by a health care provider.

The symptoms become more obvious throughout a woman's 40s. Some time soon after turning 50, the change is finished. As soon as 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 takes place.

The symptoms of menopause are usually experienced during all the stages of menopause. Unfortunately, some women may suffer with them for the rest of their lives. Menopause is a one of a kind experience for each woman. There are those who are barely aware of the process. Others will have symptoms that disrupt their lives. If you've observed any of the symptoms of menopause, you need to seek advice from your physician. He or she will be able to advise you on how to deal with the various stages of menopause. There are lots of ways to alleviate the symptoms, including pain killers, lifestyle modifications and hormone therapy. - 30307

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