Menopause marks the end of a woman’s childbearing years. The average age of menopause is around age 50, but perimenopause, or the period leading up to menopause, can begin in a woman’s 40s. This is usually a natural, gradual process during which the egg supply decreases and hormone levels shift. The earliest changes may not be noticeable, but women often begin to ovulate irregularly, which can lead to irregular periods. This is usually accompanied by fluctuating estrogen and progesterone levels, which can trigger symptoms similar to those experienced during puberty.
Hot flashes are among the best-known menopause symptoms. As you get older, these pesky heat waves can come on suddenly and leave you diving headfirst into the freezer. Experts don’t fully understand hot flashes, but they are believed to occur as a result of the body’s thermostat becoming confused by the hormonal shifts. You may not be able to eliminate night sweats and hot and cold flashes altogether, but wearing light, layered clothes and keeping a fan handy can help.
Other common menopause symptoms can include:
- Trouble sleeping
- Vaginal dryness
- Heart palpitations
- Memory lapses
- Dizziness
- Difficulty thinking clearly or brain fog
- Bone loss
- Skin that becomes thinner, dryer and more wrinkled
- Weight gain
- Sore muscles and joint pain
- Increased incidence of UTIs
- Bleeding gums and gum disease
Although many of these symptoms are often dismissed as annoying, they can have serious consequences for your health. Bone loss can lead to osteoporosis, and gum disease can lead to tooth loss and an inability to eat healthy food, Many women struggle with depression and anxiety during the change.
Taking charge of your menopause experience can help reduce those risks and improve your overall comfort level and quality of life. Healthy habits are your best defense against the symptoms of menopause and can ease your transition into this new phase of life. A healthy diet and active lifestyle are just as important as they ever were, and good sleep hygiene can help you enjoy more refreshing sleep. Natural supplements can be beneficial to some women. Talk to your doctor about any unusual or bothersome symptoms and before taking any new herbal or nutritional supplements.