Could it Be Menopause?

The majority of women who are about to enter menopause will start to notice signs that the condition is fast approaching. Menopause symptoms are a result of changing hormonal levels. This is the beginning of the wind down of the reproductive system. As hormone production decreases, most women will start to have symptoms even if their periods haven't stopped.

Somewhere between their late 30s and early 40s, many women will start to notice the first signs of menopause. This is the time when a woman's body cuts down on the production of progesterone and estrogen. Perimenopause is the name give to this phase of menopause.

The ovaries gradually stop releasing eggs, so ovulation becomes irregular. It's harder for a woman to become pregnant at this time because she becomes less fertile. 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. This is like a wave of heat that passes through the body at unexpected times, often while sleeping. 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.

Some women also experience a diminished sex drive and vaginal dryness. Other signs of menopause are thinning hair and falling breasts.

The symptoms become more noticeable throughout the 40s. Some time soon after turning 50, the transition is over. 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.

Most women will experience symptoms through the entire process of menopause. Unfortunately, some women may suffer with them for the rest of their lives.

Menopause is a unique experience for each woman. Some will hardly notice that it's happening. Other women will experience symptoms that interfere with their daily lives.

If you've noticed any of the symptoms of menopause, you should seek advice from your doctor. He or she will be able to advise you on how to deal with the various stages of menopause. There are numerous ways to ease the symptoms, including pain relievers, lifestyle modification and hormone therapy.