All women will reach the end of their childbearing years once they transition to menopause. Whereas this transition happens naturally for most women, others might get there somewhat sooner because of underlying health concerns or after a hysterectomy. During menopause Winter Park, most women start noticing unusual body changes. These changes happen because the body slows its production of reproductive hormones like estrogen and progesterone.
The hormones involved play a huge role in numerous bodily functions; thus, having lesser amounts could cause various symptoms that affect your physical, mental, and emotional health. Here are some symptoms to watch out for if you suspect you are approaching menopause.
1. Irregular Periods
Irregular periods are a common warning sign of menopause. Before women learn they have reached menopause, most worry that they are pregnant once their periods no longer appear to be on schedule.
You might notice that you bleed less or more than usual. Some women experience heavy periods, whereas others just experience spotting. Furthermore, your periods might last longer or be shorter than usual once you are nearing menopause.
2. Hot Flashes
The hormones you lack during menopause also play a huge role in body temperature regulation. As you experience fluctuating hormone levels, you may also experience hot flashes. Hot flashes are sudden surges in body temperature where you feel hot for no particular reason. Some women experience recurrent hot flashes that impact their ability to work, rest, and perform other routine activities.
3. Night Sweats
Night sweats are similar to hot flashes, except that these happen during the night. Some women experience night sweats so intensely that they must change their clothes or sheets several times per night. Night sweats could also disrupt your quantity and quality of sleep, worsening your daytime irritability and moodiness.
4. Irritability and Mood Swings
Like the symptoms you experience in the days leading to your period associated with premenstrual syndrome, menopause could also cause moodiness and irritability. You might notice mood changes for no reason. These changes might come on suddenly and be hard to control.
5. Vaginal Dryness
The reduced estrogen levels could also cause a lack of natural lubrication. Less lubrication could lead to vaginal dryness, which may cause persistent burning, pain, and itching during intercourse. Some women also experience vaginal atrophy, a condition where the vaginal tissues begin thinning and shrinking.
6. Libido Changes
Reduced levels of reproductive hormones can change your sexual desire. Your lack of interest in sexual activity, combined with increased vaginal dryness, can cause conflicts in your intimate relationships, and eventually result in poor self-esteem.
7. Anxiety and Depression
Hormone fluctuations that happen during menopause could also affect your mental well-being. Most women experience unprecedented anxiety, depression, and even panic attacks throughout their perimenopause years.
8. Cognitive Difficulties
During your transition to menopause, you might experience mental fog. Imbalanced hormones cause problems concentrating, constant forgetfulness, and memory problems.
Menopause is a natural process that every woman will experience at some point in their life. While some women experience a smooth transition, others might experience many undesirable symptoms. However, these symptoms vary from one woman to another. For instance, some might experience hot flashes and night sweats, whereas others experience irregular periods. Therefore, it is important to talk to your doctor about your unique concerns. Your specialist will provide solutions to help manage your symptoms and restore your life quality.
