3 Signs Of Early Menopause

As a woman, you are probably somewhat familiar with menopause. This condition may have already affected your mother or other older women in your life. However, some women start menopause a lot sooner than expected. The average age is 51 years old, but some women begin menopause in their 30s. Starting menopause early is not a life sentence, but it can wreak havoc on your physical and emotional well-being. Therefore, it is smart to know the signs you are beginning this change. Here are a few signs of early menopause.

Irregular Period/No Period

As you age, it is wise to track your menstrual cycle, documenting the first and last day or your period each month. Also, document how heavy or light your flow and cramping is during each month. Your gynecologist will use this evidence and the fact your period has stopped to determine if you are in menopause.

If you have not had your period in over a year or longer, you are most likely in menopause. Of course, if you are younger, you may think there is another issue that has stopped your menstrual cycle, but that is not necessarily the case.

Mood Swings

Everyone experiences changes in their mood and behavior at some point in time. However, if your moods are changing abruptly and frequently, your hormones may be unbalanced, which is a key sign you are in early menopause.

During menopause, you may feel intense sadness at one point and then happiness and elation the next. You may feel tired or then energetic at times as well. Many women will laugh at one minute and end up crying the next minute.

It is important to remember these are normal feelings, so do not feel ashamed or upset about your mood swings.

Hot Flashes

Hot flashes are also a common sign you are in menopause, but most people do not truly understand what a hot flash actually is.

The hormonal changes that occur with menopause will spike the internal body temperature, making you feel incredibly hot throughout the day no matter what the temperature is inside or out. You may have night sweats while sleeping, preventing you from getting a good night's rest, which can affect your mood during the day.

If you are experiencing one or more of the above signs, no matter what your age is, schedule a consultation with a women's health physician. After diagnosing you with early menopause, your doctor may suggest hormone replacement therapy to relieve your menopause symptoms.


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