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How to Tell if It Is Menopause

Menopause is the general term that refers to the permanent end of a woman's menstrual cycle. The medical definition specifies that menopause doesn't officially start until 12 months after a woman's last period. In the early stages of menopause, a woman begins to stop producing as much estrogen and progesterone as before. This can cause a number of changes in a woman's body. Identifying these changes helps you understand the way your body is changing.

  1. Keep Track of Your Periods

    • As a woman enters her 40s, she begins to notice that her period becomes more erratic. It may stop for a while and then begin at an unexpected time. The average age of menopause is 51, but it can begin as early as 40 and as late as 55. It's important to note that a missed period can be symptomatic of a number of things and doesn't necessarily mean you are menopausal. If you are over 40 and notice that your period is becoming more and more infrequent or irregular, keep a record. This confirms how much time has passed and gives you concrete details to discuss with your doctor.

    Physical Symptoms

    • Every woman experiences menopause differently. However, a number of common physical symptoms tend to recur. Hot flashes, when your body suddenly feels warmer than usual, are one of the most common symptoms. Some women experience sudden heart palpitations. Vaginal changes such as increased dryness may also occur. These symptoms may be strong and disrupt your daily routine, or they may pass almost unnoticed. As with your menstrual cycle, it is a good idea to keep track of such symptoms.

    Nonphysical Symptoms

    • Not all the changes women go through during menopause are physical; a number of nonphysical changes also occur. General anxiety can be a problem for some women, as can sudden mood changes or shifts. Other early signs of menopause may be mistaken for symptoms of aging, such as memory loss. Some women experience a decrease in their sex drive. Sleep problems and fatigue are also quite common. Remember to make a note of these symptoms when they occur.

    Visit a Doctor

    • Although your body is going through the change, a doctor can often help you identify menopause conclusively. Share the physical changes you've been experiencing with your doctor. Although menopause is in no way a disease, your doctor can likely prescribe medication that can ease some of the symptoms, or suggest lifestyle changes that help you make the transition to your new life.

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