The signs of menopause can be characterised by a dramatic decrease in the amount of oestrogen produced by the ovaries and being as over 300 different types of tissue are known to respond to the hormone estrogen then the effects on the body can be diverse. Some of the main effects are mentioned below:

Cholesterol levels may increase

Our bodies hold two types of cholesterol - Low-density lipoprotein, or LDL is referred to as "bad" cholesterol, and high-density lipoprotein, or HDL is called the "good" cholesterol. When you start menapause, the levels of good cholesterol start to decline, and you lose the health benefits and protection that HDL cholesterol provides. The increased ration of LDL to HDL cholesterol also leads to increase risk of heart disease, so it's very important to check your cholesterol levels regularly and take any corrective action necessary.

Low Estrogen Can Impact Heart Disease

Many research studies have shown that estrogen plays a vital role in keeping our blood vessels elastic and flexible - meaning it helps to keep our blood flowing at optimum rates. But a reduction in estrogen can lead to hardening of the blood vessels, which can in turn lead to risks of increased blood pressure and even heart disease.

Hot Flashes Could Be On Their Way

It's estimated that about 70 - 80 percent of women going through menopause experience hot flashes and one time or another. Hot flashes are primarily caused by the fluctuations in estrogen levels in our body, but various medications can also bring on hot flashes as well. The good news is that the intensity of hot flashes will decrease as you progress through menopause.

Breasts May Become Larger and More Firm

During menopause, the glandular tissues in the breast which were needed for milk production during a woman's younger years, is replaced with connective tissue. This leads to an increase in breast size and firmness. Depending on a woman's size already, it can have negative health impacts by way of back pain and lower neck ache.

Risk of Incontinence

Oestrogen is known to provide tone to the bladder sphincters and the urinary tract and so a decline in the level of this hormone can cause urinary urgency and in the later stages of pre-menopause, a loss of bladder control. This problem can be resolved to some degree with HRT or alternatively daily exercises that tone and strengthen the muscles of the pelvic floor can also help.

Bone Density Decreases

As we age, we all lose bone density - both men and women alike. We can take natural supplements that help offset the loss and maintain our bone strength well into old age. But one of the signs of menopause is an increased loss of bone density which can mean you're more prone to bone fractures and at increased risk of osteoporosis. Again, there are many natural and effective alternative remedies which can combat these signs of menopause.