What is Menopause?

​​The menopausal transition is a natural phase in a woman’s life, yet it remains widely misunderstood. If you’re feeling lost, overwhelmed, or just plain curious, you’re in the right place. Knowledge is power and learning accurate information will help you understand yourself better. 

 

What is Menopause vs Perimenopause?

Menopause marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years, officially occurring 12 months after her last menstrual period.  However, the transition leading up to menopause—known as perimenopause—can begin anytime from your 30’s to 50’s or later. While menopause is defined as the ending of your menstruation, it is so much more than that. It’s a full-body transformation that affects everything from your hormones to your emotions to your physical health and well-being.

 

During perimenopause, levels of estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone fluctuate significantly. Estrogen, essential for bone health, heart function, and emotional balance, declines, triggering a range of changes and symptoms. Progesterone, known for its calming effects, also decreases, often contributing to sleep disturbances, heightened anxiety, and increased sensitivity to stress. Meanwhile, testosterone levels drop as well, which can impact energy levels, muscle mass, and libido.

 

Common Symptoms

Symptoms can vary widely. In fact, there are over 60 symptoms that have been associated with perimenopause & menopause. Here is a short list of some of the more common symptoms women experience.

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• Hot flashes & night sweats: Sudden, intense waves of heat that can be experienced in one or many areas of the body.

• Irregular periods: Menstrual cycles may become unpredictable before stopping altogether.

• Mood swings & anxiety: Emotional fluctuations that can range from irritability to heightened anxiety and panic.

• Sleep disturbances: Difficulty falling or staying asleep, often linked to night sweats or anxiety.

• Weight gain: Metabolic shifts that may lead to changes in body composition, particularly around the abdomen.

• Brain fog & memory issues: Challenges with concentration, forgetfulness, and mental clarity.

• Vaginal dryness & reduced libido: Increased discomfort and pain as well as reduced sexual desire.

• Joint pain & muscle aches: Increased stiffness and inflammation.

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Less Known Symptoms

We often don't realize the changes we're experiencing are associated with the shifts in our hormonal levels. Here are some surprising, lesser-known symptoms that might just validate what you're experiencing.

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• Skin & hair: Skin may become drier, thinner, and more brittle as may our hair.

• Heart health risks: Increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease.

• Gut microbiome: Changes in bacterial composition which can lead to bloating, digestive issues, and metabolic changes.

• Burning mouth syndrome: Burning sensation on the tongue, lips, and/ or inside of the mouth.

• Electric shock sensations: A jolt or zap-like feeling, often preceding a hot flash.

• Allergies: Potential for heightened sensitivity to allergens or new allergies may develop.

• Body odor: Sweat glands may become more active or change in composition, altering natural body scent.

• Tinnitus: Increased ear ringing or sensitivity to sound.

• Dizziness & balance issues: Sensations of unsteadiness or vertigo due to inner ear changes. 

• Dry eyes & vision changes: Decrease in the creation of tears which can cause dry, irritated eyes and even changes in vision.

 

It’s important to recognize the wide range of symptoms that can arise during the menopausal transition—both the well-known and the unexpected.  Many women experience a wave of changes without realizing these shifts are connected to this stage of life. Recognizing the symptoms and changes is the first step toward reclaiming your well-being.