What are the signs of menopause?
Menopause is a natural phase of life that all women experience, yet the symptoms and timeline can vary. As women transition through menopause, it’s essential to understand the signs and how to support your body during this significant life stage. This guide offers an overview of the menopause journey, the most common and lesser-known symptoms, and how diet, lifestyle, and hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can help you find balance.
What Is Menopause?
Menopause marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years. It is officially diagnosed after 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period. This natural transition is caused by a decline in the production of reproductive hormones, particularly oestrogen and progesterone.
The journey through menopause typically occurs in three phases:
Perimenopause: This stage can start in your early 40s, though it varies for each woman and for some, it can begin in mid to late 30s. During perimenopause, hormone levels fluctuate, leading to irregular periods and the onset of menopause symptoms.
Menopause: This is officially recognised after 12 months without a period, typically between age 45 and 55. The ovaries stop releasing eggs, and oestrogen levels drop significantly.
Postmenopause: This is the stage after menopause, where symptoms may persist but gradually lessen over time. Hormone levels remain low, and women no longer have menstrual cycles.
10 Most Common Menopause Symptoms
Menopause affects each woman differently, but here are the most common symptoms experienced during this transition:
Hot Flushes: Sudden feelings of warmth, often in the upper body, which can cause sweating and redness.
Night Sweats: Intense sweating during sleep, often leading to disturbed rest.
Irregular Periods: Menstrual cycle length, frequency, or flow changes can occur during perimenopause.
Mood Swings: Hormonal fluctuations can cause irritability, anxiety, or feelings of depression.
Vaginal Dryness: Reduced oestrogen levels lead to thinning and dryness of the vaginal tissues, which can cause discomfort.
Sleep Disturbances: Difficulty falling or staying asleep, often due to night sweats or anxiety.
Weight Gain: Many women experience weight gain, particularly around the abdomen, due to hormonal changes.
Decreased Libido: A decrease in sexual desire is common and often linked to hormonal imbalances.
Fatigue: Low energy levels and persistent tiredness can occur, often due to sleep disturbances and hormonal shifts.
Memory Issues: Difficulty concentrating or experiencing "brain fog" can be another symptom of hormonal imbalance.
Lesser-Known Menopause Symptoms
While the symptoms above are well-known, menopause can also bring about some lesser-known symptoms that might catch women off guard:
Joint Pain: Oestrogen plays a role in joint health, and its decline can lead to stiffness and discomfort.
Burning Mouth Syndrome: A tingling or burning sensation in the mouth, lips, or tongue.
Heart Palpitations: Hormonal changes can cause irregular heartbeats or a racing heart, which can be alarming.
Digestive Issues: Bloating, gas, or changes in bowel movements may also occur as a result of hormone fluctuations.
Thinning Hair: Hair may become thinner or fall out more quickly, often due to decreased oestrogen levels.
Urinary Incontinence: Weak pelvic floor muscles can increase urination frequency, urgency, or even leakage.
Tingling Extremities: A sensation of pins and needles in the hands or feet may occur as oestrogen levels drop.
How Diet, Lifestyle, and HRT Can Help
The menopause journey can be challenging, but there are various ways to manage symptoms and support overall health.
Diet: Incorporating foods rich in phytoestrogens (like flaxseeds, soy, and legumes) can help balance hormones naturally. A diet rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats also supports overall well-being.
Lifestyle: Regular exercise, such as walking, swimming, or yoga, can help manage weight, improve mood, and reduce hot flushes. Mindful practices like meditation and deep breathing can also help manage stress and improve sleep quality.
HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy): For women with severe symptoms, HRT can be a valuable treatment. It helps replenish declining oestrogen levels, providing relief from hot flushes, night sweats, and other symptoms. As an independent prescribing pharmacist, I work closely with my clients to determine if HRT is right for them, tailoring the approach to each individual’s needs.
While menopause is a natural transition, it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right support, including nutritional therapy, lifestyle adjustments, and medical guidance, you can navigate this stage of life with greater ease and balance.
I’m an independent prescribing pharmacist and registered nutritional therapist specialising in fertility and women’s health. If you’re ready to take control of your menopause symptoms and find balance, learn more about me and how my unique approach can support your health here. As an independent prescriber and registered nutritional therapist, I blend scientific expertise with a holistic, functional medicine perspective to provide personalised care to my clients. To begin your healing menopause journey, head to my online booking form and apply to work with me in person at my Harley Street and Gerrards Cross clinic locations or online today.