34 Symptoms of Menopause

Menopause is a natural part of life for all women, though many people do not realize all the potential symptoms that may accompany this period. Here are 34 signs that may occur in menopause. While these symptoms may not all be present or affect everyone, understanding these potential signs of menopause can help women make lifestyle changes and document when these symptoms first occur for future discussion with their doctor.

Physical Symptoms

The most common physical symptoms women experience during menopause include hot flashes, night sweats, changes in their menstrual cycle, insomnia, and irregular heart rhythms. Hot flashes can make women feel uncomfortable and cause them to break out into a sweat while night sweats can wake up women at night due to the sharp increase in their body temperature. The menstrual cycle becomes irregular as the hormone estrogen decreases, often leading to longer or shorter cycles as well as more or less intense menstrual cramps. Other physical symptoms include vaginal dryness, fatigue, headaches, joint pain, and weight gain.

Emotional Symptoms

Emotional and mood-related symptoms can be some of the most difficult to cope with during menopause. These may include depression, anxiety, mood swings, irritability, confusion, and forgetfulness. For some women, these emotional changes may be so severe that they interfere with daily life. Many women also experience decreased libido, though this can be due to physical or emotional causes and not necessarily a symptom of menopause.

Gastrointestinal Symptoms

Gastrointestinal issues are not as common during menopause as some of the other symptoms, but they can still occur. Many women experience medical conditions like irritable bowel syndrome, urinary frequency, and urinary incontinence. Heartburn and acid reflux can also become more severe and frequent. There may also be an increase in chest pain and abdominal bloating.

These are the 34 potential physical, emotional, and gastrointestinal symptoms that women may experience during menopause. While these symptoms may not all occur, it is important to be aware of them so that women can better understand the changes that can happen during this period in their lives. For any severe or persistent symptoms, it is best to consult with a doctor as they may be able to provide further advice, diagnosis, and treatment.