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The Key Signs and Symptoms of Menopause

Signs and Symptoms of Menopause

Menopause symptoms and key signs of menopause generally begin during what is known as the peri-menopause or pre-menopause period, and generally reach their peak during the actual onset of menopause itself.

Menopause is a transitional period in a woman's life that officially occurs when a woman stops producing eggs and menstruation ceases for a period of time greater than one year.

For most women menopause does not officially begin until after the age of 50, however this varies from woman to woman based on a number of factors.

The average age at onset for most women is between the ages of 50 to 52. Many women however will begin experiencing the signs and symptoms of menopause several years prior to actual menopause.

How Does Menopause Affect a Woman?
Menopause will affect women in a number of different ways. Many women experience physical changes that may be attributed to hormonal fluctuations that occur in the body during this time. Some of the most common changes include:

• Hot flashes
• Flushing
• Night Sweats
• Mood changes
• Decreased libido
• Vaginal Dryness

It is important that you recognize that menopause is a normal and healthy part of life. The changes that are occurring in the time leading up to and during menopause are normal and nothing to be concerned about. Though the side effects and symptoms of menopause can be aggravating or frustrating at times, it is important to remember that they can also be managed with the your healthcare providers assistance.

How Is Menopause Detected?
Your physician may perform a pap smear to determine whether changes are occurring in the vaginal lining. Changes that occur are typically associated with changing estrogen levels.

Your physician might also conduct a number of blood or urine tests to help measure the hormone levels in your body. Other tests that might be conducted can help determine the levels of estrogen, progesterone, plasma estradiol and estrone in the body. Changes in any or all of these hormones are indications that your body is experiencing change.

I'm Going Through Menopause - Now What?
Many women are concerned that menopause will affect their life in a negative way. It is important however to remember that menopause is simply another step in the long journey that is life. Menopause is actually very similar to puberty. During puberty a woman's body goes through a number of hormonal changes to prepare her for her reproductive years.

The time after puberty is often rewarding and full of new experiences and insights. Much like puberty, your body is going through a number of similar hormonal changes once you reach menopause. After menopause, you will once again experience a number of rewarding and exciting new life events that will enrich your life in a variety of ways.

The most important thing you can do to enhance your quality of life after menopause is to embrace it. Also remember that maintaining a healthy lifestyle that incorporates exercise and healthy eating will be vital to your sense of well being in the years after menopause. It is also important that you take time out to re-connect with family members, including your partner during this time. The more you are open and honest about your feelings and the changes that you are going through, the more you'll fell supported and nurtured during this remarkable time in your life.