Common Menopause Symptoms

Answer 1

Menopause can be a sneaky issue, sometimes hitting women all of the sudden but most often a slow, unpredictable display of various symptoms. This often starts for most women in their 40s, but it does seem to have some genetic effects. This means that if your mother experienced her first natural menopause symptoms in her early 50s, you might be likely to begin then as wellthe same goes for if your mother experienced natural early symptoms before age 40. By definition, women are said to be 'in menopause' one full year following the end of their last menstrual period, which is typically around age 51 for many.

Menopause symptoms can be a wide variety of things, sometimes making it a challenge to pinpoint if it really is menopause or not. Some of the more common menopause symptoms are:

• Irregular periods- periods become longer or shorter and much less predictable.
• Vaginal dryness- this can be helped by lubricants and an active sex life.
• Hot flashes, cold flashes, temperature issues- body temperature seems to fluctuate without warning or predictability. The best way to try and deal with this is to dress in layers and be prepared to get to fresh air if necessary.
• Mood swings- again, very unpredictable.
• Sleep issues

The cause of these menopause symptoms is typically the natural decline in the body's production of reproductive hormones. Typically, this is a gradual process throughout a woman's 40s. However , in the case of a hysterectomy where the ovaries and uterus are removed, menopause can happen immediately. Women who undergo a full hysterectomy should be educated and prepared for the onslaught that can happen quickly.

A lifestyle that consists of time for relaxation, eating well and getting basic exercise seems to be a key factor in helping many women cope with the roller coaster that is menopause. There is no magic pill for menopause, just the different ways of alleviating specific symptoms or getting through them until they pass. Menopause does not have to be an unpleasant time of life if you are informed and proactive about what is happening and take the time to design a lifestyle that helps you cope.