What are the signs of menopause?

Written By Hema Prakash

From the day we get our first period, it often feels like we’re on a physical and emotional roller coaster. But then perimenopause comes along with its irregular shifts in hormones and suddenly the roller coaster turns into a wild and unpredictable ride. 

 But how do we know when we’re in perimenopause? 

Perimenopause is the transitional period before menopause, when you may start having menopause-like symptoms. Current research suggests that there are around 60 of these symptoms. 

Early diagnosis and treatment for perimenopause symptoms, including lifestyle management, can help you feel more in control of your body. And while some can be tricky to identify, we’ve found that the best way to understand the signs of menopause is to break them down into age groups. 

 

Ages 35-39: Premature Menopause

In your thirties, there is/there can be [AR1] a perimenopause and fertility crossover. Some women will notice a change in their menstrual cycle with shorter or longer periods, and lighter or heavier bleeding. Fluctuations in premenstrual symptoms and mood can indicate the first signs of perimenopause. 

A small number of women have Primary Ovarian Insufficiency (POI) which means their ovaries don't produce normal amounts of oestrogen or release eggs regularly. When women experience menopause before the age of 40, it is diagnosed as ‘premature menopause’ which is associated with higher risks of conditions like osteoporosis and heart disease, compared with a later menopausal age.

 

Ages 40-44: Early Menopause

Once again, there is a perimenopause and fertility crossover. Changes in your cycle and mood can be the first signs of perimenopause and may start to develop more obvious symptoms like hot flushes, night sweats, joint aches and central weight gain. 

If your periods stop altogether between the ages of 40 – 45, it will be considered ‘early menopause’ – and again, there is an increased risk of adverse health outcomes so it’s important to treat any signs of menopause early.

 

Ages 45 – 49: First signs of perimenopause

This is the most common time to start 'perimenopause.’ It’s characterised by hormonal fluctuations and symptoms including:

  • Irregular periods

  • Hot flushes

  • Night sweats

  • Difficulty sleeping

  • Fatigue

  • Joint aches

  • Brain fog

  • Mood changes 

  • Vaginal dryness

  • Dry skin

  • Low libido

  • Central weight gain

While hot flushes are portrayed as one of the classic signs of menopause, not all women experience them. And it’s the less obvious symptoms can sneak up over time and leave women feeling confused and like they’re losing their sense of self. 

This is compounded by the fact that these signs of menopause are happening as women are in the peak of their careers, while raising children and caring for aging parents. 

 Treatment for perimenopause symptoms can help maintain a quality of life. The range of treatments available are as diverse as the symptoms, which is why it’s important to find a healthcare provider who can help navigate the different options.

 

Ages 50-54 – Menopause

Within this age range, some women may be experiencing the first signs of perimenopause while others have transitioned to the ‘post-menopausal’ stage. The average age of menopause is 51 however the signs of menopause can last for years, and some women will continue to experience symptoms for another two decades. 

Even if you don't experience any menopausal symptoms, your risks of certain health conditions will increase and need to be addressed.

 

Ages 55-69: Post-menopause symptoms after 50

During post-menopausal phase the focus is on preventative health to minimise the increased risk of heart disease, stroke, osteoporosis and urinary symptoms. It’s important to manage these conditions with regular screening, lifestyle changes and medications.  

Other post-menopause symptoms after 50 can include urinary issues and vaginal dryness, which are less frequently raised by doctors or patients, but require treatment to improve. 

 

Every woman will experience the peri to post menopause journey differently and the signs of menopause are the cue that it’s time to step off the hormonal rollercoaster. The ride may be over but with good management this phase can be liberating and best time of your life.

 

Looking to navigate this journey from peri to post menopause well?

Let us help! Book your first appointment with Ponti Health today!

Hema Prakash