Signs You May Be Entering Into Menopause
Perimenopause usually starts several years before you enter into menopause. You remain in the perimenopause stage until you enter into menopause. During this perimenopause period, your ovaries make less estrogen. At the end of your perimenopause stage (the last 1 to 2 years) you will begin to experience some common menopause symptoms.
Menopause is a normal part of your aging process. Your female sex hormone levels decrease and your ovaries gradually cease releasing eggs. This ultimately results in the stopping of your menstrual period, and you no longer are able to get pregnant. Menopause typically occurs for women in their 40s or 50s.
Common Menopause Symptoms
- Hot flashes
- Irregular periods
- Night sweats
- Difficulty with sleeping
- Moodiness
- Forgetfulness
- Changes in skin or hair
- Weight gain
- Stiffness in joints
- Increased heart beating
You may read this list and think that only a few of these apply to you in your stage of menopause. Every women experiences different levels and combinations of these symptoms. If you think you’re entering into the perimenopause or menopause stage of your life, it’s important to discuss the changes you are experiencing with caring experts who can help guide you through this next stage of your life.
