Signs of Menopause in Women Over 50

Menopause is the time leading up to the end of menstruation. The actual menopause or ending is when a woman has no menstrual periods for more than a year. This ending usually occurs when a woman is around 50-years-old. For some, it may be after the age of 50.

Hot Flashes

• Hot flashes are rises in body temperature that varies in intensity. Some women experience heart palpitations.

Night Sweats

• Hot flashes at night are called night sweats. For women in their forties and fifties, it can cause waking from sleep with soaked nightclothes and bed sheets.

Vaginal Changes

• Painful intercourse is more prominent in women who are over 50. The pain is due to vaginal dryness and the thinning of the vaginal wall. Doctors may prescribe a suppository that is estrogen.

Bladder

• Weakness in the bladder muscles is another menopausal symptom for women over 50. This can occur during sneezing or laughing, or there may be a slow drip of urine.

Depression

• Depression may occur for women experiencing menopausal symptoms. Some doctors may prescribe an antidepressant.