Five Perimenopausal Symptoms to Identify the Advent of Menopause

Menopause or cessation of monthly cycle signals the end of fertile phase in a women’s life. While for some the transition is smooth and uneventful, for others it may be quite a life wrecker. Although the average menopausal age is 51, it is not always easy to diagnose the advent of menopause and the changes that follow. Medical experts suggest yearly visit to a gynecologist post 40 as medical help goes a long way in providing a smooth and healthy transition when many other ailments like thyroid or diabetes may also set in.

The transition period may last 2-4 years before menopause finally sets in. Listed below are some of the common symptoms of menopause that must be attended to once you are about to reach your 50’s.

Hot Flashes:

Also known as hot flushes, it is a common symptom of menopause. Change in hormone levels lead to a feeling of intense flush of heat emanating from face and other body parts for a period of two to thirty minutes. Other symptoms include increase in heart beat and sweating.

Irregular Menstrual Cycle:

The menstrual cycle gets irregular before it finally stops. Some of the changes in menstrual cycle are increase or decrease in the amount of blood discharged, frequency of periods and the intervals between cycles. These changes may be seen all through the transition period lasting 2-4 years.

Vaginal dryness:

Hormones like estrogen are responsible for secretion of clear fluids which maintain vaginal moisture. It is responsible for keeping the vaginal lining healthy, thick and elastic. During perimenopause, the estrogen levels drop significantly, reducing the lubrication and elasticity of vagina causing vaginal atrophy. Pain, discomfort and itching are some of the common symptoms of vaginal dryness.

Night Sweats:

Also known as sleep hypothyroidism, it is another common symptom of menopause in which excessive sweating occurs during sleep. Often mistaken for environmental changes or warm room climate, if it drenches your sleep wear and sheets, it is more likely an indication of approaching menopause.

Sudden Mood Changes:

Fluctuating hormone levels can take a toll on your psychology too. The decreasing levels of estrogen bring about mood swings putting you on an emotional roller coaster ride. If you feel sad for no particular reason, stay cranky all through the day and are unable to enjoy activities you normally love doing, you might be on the brink of depression due to the onset of menopausal transition phase.

By Medical Opinion