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Menopause Symptoms
Women do not necessarily experience the same menopause symptoms, but common ones (other than your period stopping) include hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal changes. Additional signs and symptoms include thinning bones, weight gain, and thinning hair. However, these symptoms of menopause might actually be related to growing older rather than to changes in estrogen levels.
An Introduction to Menopause Signs and Symptoms
Because estrogen is used by many parts of the body, there is a wide range of possible menopause symptoms; the symptoms may vary greatly from woman to woman. Changes in how much estrogen you have can cause assorted symptoms, but that doesn't mean you will have all, or even most, of them. In fact, some of what appear to be symptoms of menopause may really be a result of growing older and not due to changes in your estrogen levels.
Possible Signs and Symptoms of Menopause
Possible menopause signs and symptoms can include:
- Changes in your period
- Abnormal bleeding or "spotting"
- Hot flashes (hot flushes)
- Night sweats and sleeping problems
- Vaginal changes
- Thinning of your bones
- Mood changes
- Urinary problems
- Problems with concentration or memory
- Less interest in sex and changes in sexual response
- Weight gain or increase in body fat around your waist
- Hair thinning or loss.
A More Detailed Look at Menopause Symptoms
Every woman's period will stop at menopause. Some women may not have any other signs. As you near menopause, however, you may have a number of signals that menopause is approaching.
Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD