While menopause is a normal part of life, many of its symptoms can be managed through treatment options. By having knowledge of the signs of this discomfort, you can help prepare yourself and your body for the changes that will occur as a result.



Perimenopause

The signs of Menopause are preceded by something called "perimenopause". Perimenopause is another phase of life, usually lasting several years, that serves as the essential "lead-up" to full-blown menopause.

Like menopause, perimenopause is a natural occurrence and not something that requires a cure or a treatment. Perimenopause is usually introduced by signs and symptoms such as:

- Menstrual irregularity: you may experience shorter or longer cycles of your period, depending on the hormonal balance in your body. Heavier or lighter cycles than normal are also common.

- Aches and pains

- Migraines

- Decreased short-term memory

- Fluid retention

- Digestive problems

- Breast tenderness

Menopause

Full menopause begins are the lead-up stage, of course. This discomfort is the final part of the menstruation process and is a natural part of life.

Menopause is not a disease requiring treatment, but some of the signs of it may become unbearable and you may want to seek out solutions to help you deal with them more effectively.

Full menopause is considered by most experts to occur when you have not had your period for almost an entire year. It can be very difficult to differentiate the symptoms of perimenopause and menopause, as there will likely be some overlap.

One of the key facts about this discomfort is that the symptoms are not experienced by all women in the same way. As the body's internal chemistry changes, various symptoms are possible. Many of the common signs of this discomfort include:

- Hot flashes or night sweats

- Vaginal dryness

- Heart palpitations

- Decreased sex drive

- Weight gain

- Dizziness

- Psychological issues, such as depression or irritability

Post-Menopause

The final stage of this discomfort is post-menopause. As the body continues to go through cycles, your body's final menstrual cycles operate much the same way.

The full cycle of this common discomfort, including perimenopause and post-menopause, will have you watching out for signs of this discomfort for quite a long period of time.

A lot of women experience a feeling of general peace (and understandably so) when post-menopause arrives. The hormones have stopped flushing around and the body has calmed down somewhat.

Gone is the fear of pregnancy or the symptoms of PMS or other annoyances. However, there are still signs of this discomfort to watch out for in the post-menopause stage. This signs include:

- Vaginal dryness and itching

- Bladder infection

- Urinary difficulties

- Stress incontinence (leaking urine due to laughing, sneezing or other sudden movements)

There are many signs of menopause to watch out for as the body changes and menstruation cycles come to a close. You may not experience all or any of these symptoms, but you will certainly go through the final process of menstruation.

This discomfort is a normal part of life, so keep that in mind before seeking out treatment options. By knowing the signs of this discomfort, you should be able to greet this part of your life with ease.