Somewhere between the ages of 40 to 59 is when most women begin to feel the effects of menopause but it has been know to occur almost anytime beyond the age of 30 or so. It is not uncommon for many women to experience menopause about the same age that their mothers did but not in all cases.

In some instances there are exceptions and one being is if both the ovaries and the uterus have been surgically removed. In this case women will experience what is known as "surgical menopause". In cases where the ovaries remain after surgery, gradual menopause will occur as less hormones are produced over time.

In many cases what is known as peri menopause occurs. As women begin to age less and less female hormones, specifically estrogen and progesterone are produced. When this happens slowly the process is very slight and symptoms are generally very light.

The menstrual cycle is usually the first sign as periods are often starting to skip or in some cases they occur closer together. The menstrual flow will be noticeably heavier or lighter and can be accompanied by hot flashes as well.

Hot flashes usually begin with a warm feeling starting in your chest and with wave like sensations pulsate into your head. You may experience a redding of your skin and begin to sweat.

Nausea and dizziness along with their companions, rapid heartbeat and headaches may also occur but usually these are the most prominent signs and symptoms of peri menopause in the early changes of life.

If hot flashes occur at night, night sweats and trouble sleeping may produce tiredness the next day making the whole process even more miserable.

Quite often emotional symptoms also occur which can include sadness, tiredness, anxiety, frustration and others. Seeing your physician is your best defense against these types of symptoms. There are treatments available that can help alleviate these symptoms and help make them more tolerable.

The process of peri menopause and menopause in general is usually very gradual and can take several years to run it's course. Blood test can be taken by your physician to determine what stage of menopause your are in but in most cases when no period has taken place for 12 months, menopause has ended.

Of course, all women experience menopause on different levels. For some it can be a relatively quick and painless experience but for others it can be painfully slow and very frustrating to say the least.

Fortunately there are many treatment plans available which include both natural and prescription medication including hormone replacement therapy. Most women prefer trying the natural approach first and for many this may work. Always consult with your physician about your treatment plan if you are not experiencing the results you desire.