Fluctuating levels of estrogen and progesterone can cause a variety of symptoms. Because each woman experiences menopause differently, some have many symptoms and some have very few. Severity of symptoms also varies a great deal.

Symptoms include:

Irregular periods

• Shorter or longer cycles
• Heavier or lighter bleeding
• Spotting in between periods
• Irregular ovulation
• Reduced fertility

Hot flashes

• Reported in up to 80% of American women
• Sudden onset of a feeling of heat
• Face and neck flush
• Last 30 seconds to five minutes
• Can occur at any time
• Usually stop by a few years after menopause

Vaginal and bladder problems

• Skin in genital area becomes drier and thinner
• Sexual intercourse may become painful
• Vaginal infection potential increases
• Urinary tract problems may occur, such as infection and incontinence

Changes in sexuality

• Attitude toward sex may change
• Diminished interest in sex
• Arousal and comfort may be issues
• Liberation from concerns about pregnancy (but should use birth control until one year after last period)
• Risk of sexually transmitted diseases remains

Fatigue and sleep problems

• Normal sleep patterns may be interrupted
• Early morning awakening

Mood changes

• Irritability and depression
• Anxiety
• Stress and change in family dynamics may contribute to mood problems

Visible changes in your body

• Thickening at the waist
• Loss of muscle mass
• Increase in fat
• Loss of elasticity in the skin

Other potential symptoms

• Headaches
• Memory problems
• Joint and muscle stiffness or pain
• Difficulty concentrating

Sources:

National Institute on Aging.

North American Menopause Society.

ThirdAge WWW