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.

Menopause Information

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.

(Menopause Symptoms Continued: Page 2)