Am I going through the menopause? 8 symptoms you should know about

Menopause is a natural part of life for all women, but it can sometimes feel confusing or overwhelming. You’re not alone. It’s a big change in your body, and many women aren’t sure what to expect. 

What is menopause?

Menopause is the time in a woman’s life when her periods stop altogether, and she can no longer have children naturally. You’ve officially reached menopause when you haven’t had a period for 12 months in a row. For most women, this happens between the ages of 45 and 55, but it can happen earlier or later.

Menopause doesn’t happen overnight – it’s a gradual process that takes place over several years. There are three main stages of menopause:

1. Perimenopause: This is the time leading up to menopause when your hormone levels start to change. Your periods may become irregular, and you might start to notice symptoms like hot flushes or mood swings. This stage can last a few months or several years.
2. Menopause: You’ve reached menopause when you’ve gone a full 12 months without a period. At this point, your ovaries have stopped releasing eggs, and your body makes much less of the hormones oestrogen and progesterone.
3. Postmenopause: After menopause, you enter the postmenopausal phase. Some symptoms may get better, but lower hormone levels can affect your health in other ways, like increasing your risk of conditions like osteoporosis (weaker bones) or heart disease.

Common symptoms of menopause

The symptoms of menopause can vary a lot from one woman to another. Some women have very few symptoms, while others may find them more difficult to manage. Here are some of the common signs that you might be going through menopause:

1. Irregular periods

One of the first signs of menopause is a change in your periods. They might come more or less frequently, and the flow might be heavier or lighter. You could also skip a period for a few months, then have one again. If you experience very heavy bleeding or spotting between periods, it’s important to talk to a GP.

2. Hot flushes and night sweats

Hot flushes are sudden feelings of heat that can spread across your face, neck, and chest, often making you sweat. They can happen at any time of day. When they happen at night, they’re called night sweats and can disturb your sleep, leaving you feeling tired the next day.

3. Mood changes

Many women experience mood swings, anxiety, or feelings of sadness during menopause. These changes are caused by fluctuating hormones and can make you feel more emotional or irritable. Some women may also struggle with anxiety or depression during this time.

4. Sleep problems

Menopause can make it harder to get a good night’s sleep. This might be because of night sweats, or you may find it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep for no clear reason. Poor sleep can make you feel more tired and affect your mood and energy levels.

5. Changes in sex drive

As hormone levels drop, you might notice a decrease in your sex drive. Some women also experience vaginal dryness, which can make sex uncomfortable or even painful. It’s important to know that there are treatments available to help with this.

6. Weight gain and changes in body shape

Many women find it harder to maintain their weight during menopause. You might notice weight gain, particularly around your middle. This is partly due to changes in hormones that affect your metabolism, making it easier to gain weight and harder to lose it.

7. Thinning hair and dry skin

Menopause can also affect your hair and skin. Your hair may become thinner or more brittle, and your skin may feel drier or less firm.

8. Forgetfulness and trouble concentrating

Some women experience memory problems or feel less focused during menopause. You might notice that it’s harder to concentrate, or you may feel a bit forgetful. This is sometimes referred to as “brain fog.”

Why does menopause happen?

Menopause happens because your body is producing less of the hormones oestrogen and progesterone. These hormones control your menstrual cycle, and as they drop, your periods become irregular and eventually stop altogether. Oestrogen affects many parts of your body, which is why the symptoms of menopause can range from hot flushes to changes in your skin and hair.

What can bring on early menopause?

While menopause usually happens in your late 40s or early 50s, some things can cause it to happen earlier:

• Genetics: If your mother or sisters went through menopause early, you might too.
• Smoking: Women who smoke are more likely to experience menopause earlier.
• Medical treatments: Chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or surgery to remove your ovaries can cause early menopause.
• Health conditions: Certain health issues, like autoimmune diseases, can also cause early menopause.

How is menopause diagnosed?

If you think you’re going through menopause, it’s a good idea to speak to a GP. They’ll ask about your symptoms and may recommend a blood test to check your hormone levels. They might also rule out other conditions, such as thyroid problems, which can cause similar symptoms.

How can I manage menopause symptoms?

There are many ways to manage menopause symptoms, from making lifestyle changes to seeking medical treatments. Here are some tips to help you feel better during this transition:

1. Eat a healthy diet and stay active

A balanced diet is important during menopause, as your body’s needs change. Make sure you’re getting plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, along with enough calcium and vitamin D to support your bones. Regular exercise can also help keep your weight in check, improve your mood, and reduce the risk of health problems like heart disease.

2. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)

HRT is one option for managing menopause symptoms. It works by replacing the hormones your body is no longer making. HRT can help relieve symptoms like hot flushes, mood swings, and vaginal dryness. However, it’s not suitable for everyone, so it’s important to discuss the risks and benefits with your GP.

3. Non-hormonal treatments

If HRT isn’t right for you, there are other treatments available. For example, there are non-hormonal medicines that can help with hot flushes such as SSRIs, and moisturisers or lubricants can help with vaginal dryness. Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) can also help manage anxiety and mood swings.

4. Get enough sleep

If you’re having trouble sleeping, establishing a calming bedtime routine can make a big difference. Try to keep your bedroom cool, avoid caffeine in the afternoon, and create a relaxing environment to help you fall asleep more easily.

5. Manage stress

Menopause can be a stressful time, so finding ways to relax is important. Yoga, meditation, and breathing exercises can help reduce stress and improve your overall wellbeing. Taking time for activities you enjoy can also help you feel more balanced.

Long-term health after menopause

Once you’ve gone through menopause, it’s important to think about your long-term health. Lower levels of oestrogen can increase your risk of certain health issues, so it’s a good idea to take steps to protect yourself.

1. Bone health

Oestrogen helps keep your bones strong, so when levels drop after menopause, your risk of osteoporosis increases. Make sure you’re getting enough calcium and vitamin D, and try to include weight-bearing exercises like walking or strength training in your routine.

2. Heart health

The risk of heart disease goes up after menopause, partly due to lower oestrogen levels. To keep your heart healthy, focus on eating a balanced diet, staying active, and keeping an eye on your blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

3. Mental health

Menopause can take a toll on your mental health, so it’s important to seek support if you need it. Whether that’s talking to your GP, a therapist, or joining a support group, there are plenty of options available to help you manage any emotional changes.

Common questions about menopause

How long does menopause last?
The menopausal transition can last anywhere from 4 to 10 years. Most women experience the most intense symptoms during the first few years of menopause.

Can I still get pregnant during perimenopause?
Yes, you can still get pregnant during perimenopause if you’re having periods. If you don’t want to get pregnant, make sure to use contraception until your GP confirms that you’ve reached menopause.

Is HRT safe for everyone?
HRT can be a good option for many women, but it’s not suitable for everyone. A GP can help you weigh the risks and benefits to decide if it’s right for you.

What can I do about vaginal dryness?
There are moisturisers and lubricants you can use to help with vaginal dryness. If these don’t work, a GP may recommend a low-dose oestrogen cream or tablet to apply directly to the vagina.

Conclusion

Menopause is a natural part of life, but it can be a challenging time for many women. By understanding the signs and symptoms, you can feel more in control of the changes happening in your body. Whether it’s making lifestyle changes or seeking treatment from your GP, there are many ways to manage menopause and stay healthy in the years ahead.

If you’re struggling with symptoms or have any concerns, don’t hesitate to speak with your GP for advice and support. Every woman’s experience is unique, and getting the help you need can make this transition much easier to navigate.i