Menopause marks the end of a woman’s menstrual cycle. Although a normal and natural event, it can seem confusing and intimidating for many women. After all, there is no definite time or date for its arrival, and it causes many changes in a woman’s body.
Here are some early signs of menopause to look out for. If you develop any of them, talk to your doctor immediately. There are ways to improve your symptoms and help you transition into the next stage of life with comfort.
1. Hot Flashes and Night Sweats
Considered to be the most common sign of menopause, hot flashes are sudden, short, and periodic feelings of intense heat that are related to declining estrogen levels.
Hot flashes may also result in increased heart rate, which causes sweating as the body tries to reduce its temperature. You may experience palpitations and dizziness, as well. Frequency and intensity are different for each woman. Night sweats are hot flashes that occur at night. You may wake up drenched in perspiration and experience trouble getting restful sleep.
Hormone therapy has shown to ease some discomfort caused by hot flashes. However, this treatment should only be considered after the evaluation and recommendation of a healthcare provider.
2. Vaginal Atrophy
Vaginal atrophy is the drying, thinning, and inflammation of the vaginal walls resulting from reduced estrogen levels. You may experience pain when sitting, standing, exercising, and during sexual intercourse. It may also cause urinary problems or infections.
You may consult your provider about estrogen alternatives that can improve symptoms of vaginal atrophy.
3. Irregular Periods
Another sign of menopause is when your menstrual cycle becomes more unpredictable. The gap between your periods will fluctuate as well as the heaviness of your period. You may also miss some periods entirely. Despite irregular periods, pregnancy is still possible during this stage.
A gap of 7 or more extra days between your periods may indicate early stage of perimenopause, meaning your body is transitioning into menopause. Meanwhile, you may be in late perimenopause if you have at least a 60-day gap between periods.
4. Sleep Problems
Poor sleep may recur throughout a woman’s transition into menopause. You may find yourself waking up in the middle of the night and having trouble getting back to sleep. Factors that disrupt sleep include hot flashes, depression, and anxiety. You may also develop sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea, resulting from a decrease in progesterone and estrogen.
Your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes, such as exercising, to improve the quality of your sleep. Hormone therapy may also be considered.
5. Mood Swings
Changes in emotional reactions are also part of a woman’s transition into menopause. Irritability and anxiety may occur as hormonal changes significantly affect your mood. Women also face a higher risk of depression and anxiety as a result of other symptoms, such as interrupted or poor sleep and weight gain.
6. Changes in Libido or Sex Drive
Sexual arousal and desire may also decrease. Women often experience lower libido during early perimenopause. This is due to declining estrogen levels, making it more difficult for you to get aroused.
7. Weight Gain and Slowed Metabolism
Hormonal changes can make weight gain more likely around your abdominal area. Lack of exercise, poor diet, and poor sleep patterns are other factors that can contribute to menopausal weight gain.
Metabolism can also slow down, making it more challenging to maintain your weight if you don’t watch what you eat and remain physically active.
Menopausal Relief in Denton and Frisco, Texas
If you feel burdened by any of the symptoms above, feel free to visit us at DFW Anti-Aging and Wellness Centers. We can support you as you go through this transition in your life with our wellness services.
To schedule a consultation with our health and wellness specialist, call our office at (469) 389-5251 or fill out our appointment request form. We look forward to helping you find relief.
