Menopause, a natural transition in a woman’s life, brings along a range of physical and emotional changes. Recognizing the early symptoms of menopause is essential for managing this phase effectively. Here are some common signs that could indicate the onset of menopause:

1. Hot Flushes

   • One of the most recognizable and dreaded symptoms is hot flushes.
   • About 70-80% of women experience hot flushes during menopause.
   • Skin may turn red, and flushing may be accompanied by warmth and blotchiness.
   • Intensity and duration of hot flushes vary, and they can disrupt sleep patterns.
   • Manna Hot Flush Gel can provide instant relief from hot flushes.

2. Night Sweats

   • Similar to hot flushes, night sweats occur during sleep.
   • Waking up drenched in sweat due to sudden episodes of overheating.
   • Not all women who experience daytime hot flushes will have night sweats.
   • Manna Hot Flush Gel can help alleviate night sweats and prevent them when applied before bedtime.

3. Difficulty Sleeping

   • Night sweats can contribute to sleep disturbances during menopause.
   • Other symptoms like headaches or vaginal itching may also disrupt sleep.
   • Strategies to manage menopause-related sleeplessness are important.

4. Forgetfulness

   • Memory lapses and forgetfulness become more common leading up to menopause.
   • Instances of forgetfulness and difficulty concentrating may increase.
   • After menopause begins, forgetfulness can impact daily life.

5. Irritability

   • Discomfort from various symptoms and sleep disturbances can lead to irritability.
   • Hormonal changes during menopause may contribute to mood changes.

6. Mood Swings

   • Some women experience mood swings, leading to anger, anxiety, and short temper.
   • Fluctuations in estrogen and other hormones can contribute to emotional sensitivity.

7. Headaches

   • Frequent headaches, both constant and sudden, are common during menopause.
   • Headaches can exacerbate irritability and mood swings.

8. Decrease in Libido

   • Declining estrogen levels contribute to reduced sex drive.
   • Factors like delayed clitoral reaction and lack of orgasmic response also play a role.

9. Vaginal Dryness & Itching

   • Hormonal changes, especially reduced estrogen, can lead to vaginal dryness.
   • Loss of lubrication, elasticity, and thinning of vaginal walls can cause discomfort.
   • Vaginal dryness can result in itching and irritation.

10. Weight Gain

    • Menopause often leads to weight gain, particularly around the midsection.
    • Factors include slower metabolism and elevated cortisol levels.
    • Emotional eating may contribute to uncontrollable weight gain.

Menopause typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, with the average age being around 51. However, the age at which menopause starts can vary widely from woman to woman. Some women may experience menopause earlier, in their late 30s or early 40s, while others may not reach menopause until their late 50s.

The age at which menopause occurs is influenced by various factors, including genetics, lifestyle, medical history, and overall health. Smoking, certain medical conditions, and certain medical treatments (such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy) can also impact the timing of menopause. This transitional phase is considered to have started when a woman has gone without a menstrual period for 12 consecutive months.

It’s important to note that the years leading up to menopause, known as perimenopause, can also bring about hormonal fluctuations and changes in menstrual patterns. During this phase, women may experience some of the early symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings, even before they officially reach menopause.