3 Early Signs of Menopause

Jun 01, 2023
3 Early Signs of Menopause
Menopause is a natural shift that signals the end of your fertility, but while it’s natural, it’s not without a few unpleasant symptoms. Here are three early signs of menopause that can hint at the start of your shift into menopause.

Menopause is a natural stage in your life that signifies the end of your reproductive years. While menopause typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, some women may experience early signs of this transition in their early 40s. Recognizing these signs can help you understand and prepare for the changes that lie ahead. 

Let’s take a look at three early signs of menopause that you should be aware of and how board-certified OB/GYN Karen Allsup, FACOG, MD, and our Aurora OB/GYN team can help you through this transition. 

Irregular menstrual cycles

One of the earliest signs of approaching menopause is a change in your menstrual cycle. Your periods may become irregular, with variations in the length of your cycle, the duration of your period, and the flow. You may experience shorter or longer cycles, missed periods, or heavier and more prolonged bleeding. 

These irregularities occur because of fluctuating hormone levels as your ovaries gradually produce less estrogen and progesterone. Tracking your menstrual cycle and noting any changes can help you identify patterns and determine if you are entering perimenopause, the transitional phase leading up to menopause.

Hot flashes and night sweats

Hot flashes and night sweats are classic symptoms of menopause. They occur because of hormonal fluctuations that affect the body’s temperature regulation. Hot flashes are sudden sensations of heat that can cause intense sweating, facial flushing, and an increased heartbeat. 

Night sweats are similar, but they specifically occur during sleep and can disrupt your rest. These symptoms can be intense and may last a few minutes or longer. 

While hot flashes and night sweats can be uncomfortable, there are strategies to manage them, such as dressing in layers, using fans or cool compresses, avoiding triggers, and practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation.

Changes in mood and sleep patterns

Fluctuating hormone levels during menopause can also impact your mood and sleep patterns. Many women experience mood swings, irritability, anxiety, or feelings of sadness. These emotional changes can be attributed to hormonal imbalances and other factors like stress and lifestyle adjustments. 

Additionally, sleep disturbances are common during menopause, including difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or experiencing restless nights. Poor sleep can further exacerbate mood swings and affect your overall well-being. Engaging in stress-reducing activities, establishing a bedtime routine, and creating a comfortable sleep environment can help promote better sleep and support emotional balance during this transitional phase.

It’s important to remember that every woman’s experience with menopause is unique, and the timing and severity of symptoms can vary. If you suspect you may be entering menopause or experiencing early signs, let us know. Dr. Allsup can evaluate your symptoms, guide lifestyle modifications, and discuss potential treatment options — including hormonal replacement therapy — to manage any discomfort or challenges you may face.

By recognizing these early signs of menopause, you can approach this natural life stage with a better understanding of what to expect. Embrace self-care practices, seek support from our team, and remember menopause is a normal part of a woman's life journey.

To learn more about menopause management, call us at 210-547-4700 or use our online form to book your next appointment.