Signs You May Be Entering Menopause

Menopause officially begins when you haven’t had a period for 12 consecutive months. In the United States, around 6,000 women reach menopause every day. However, symptoms can start long before that in a phase called perimenopause, which can last for years.

During perimenopause, your body undergoes hormonal changes as your ovaries slow down estrogen production. This is natural for women, yet it can feel confusing and sometimes overwhelming. 

At Chicago Center for Women's Health, we aim to make the transition as smooth as possible for all our patients.

Signs of menopause

Common signs that you’re entering menopause might include some or all of the following:

Menstrual changes

One of the earliest and most noticeable menopause indicators is changes in your menstrual cycle. Your periods may become less or more frequent, so you might skip a month or have two periods close together. They may be lighter or heavier than you’re used to and shorter or longer — your cycle might last fewer days or stretch beyond the usual timeframe.

If your period suddenly stops for a while and then returns, this could also be a sign of perimenopause. If you experience extremely heavy bleeding or bleeding between periods, it’s a good idea to visit so we can confirm the symptoms are due to menopause.

Hot flashes and night sweats

Many women experience sudden waves of heat that spread across their face, neck, and chest. These hot flashes can last anywhere from a few seconds to several minutes.

Night sweats are similar but occur while you’re sleeping, often causing you to wake up drenched in sweat.

Trouble sleeping

Many women entering menopause experience insomnia. Changes in hormone levels interfere with the body’s natural sleep cycle, causing problems like difficulty falling asleep, frequent waking, and feeling unrested in the morning.

If hot flashes or night sweats wake you up often, cooling down your bedroom and wearing light, breathable fabrics may help.

Mood swings and irritability

Hormonal fluctuations resulting from menopause can cause mood swings, irritability, and even anxiety or depression.

Call us if your mood changes feel overwhelming or affect your daily life. Lifestyle changes, therapy, and sometimes medication can help.

Brain fog

Many women have difficulties with cognitive functions like memory and concentration during menopause. A recent study found that maintaining dietary iron levels during menopause could help to combat brain fog, and proper nutrition has many other beneficial effects.

Vaginal dryness and discomfort

Menopausal estrogen decrease can cause vaginal tissues to become thinner, drier, and less elastic. This may lead to itching or irritation, pain during sex, and a raised risk of urinary tract infections.

Using water-based lubricants or vaginal moisturizers can ease discomfort. Topical estrogen creams are also helpful.

Changes in weight and metabolism

Many women notice that it’s easy to gain weight and hard to lose it during menopause. This is because hormonal changes slow metabolism and shift fat distribution, often leading to more weight around the abdomen.

Regular exercise and nutrition counseling can help you manage your weight and keep you strong and energized. Strength training, in particular, can be very effective in maintaining muscle mass and bone strength.

Thinning hair and dry skin

Lower estrogen levels can affect your hair and skin. You might notice hair thinning or shedding, drier, more sensitive skin, and brittle nails. Staying hydrated, using gentle skin products, and eating a nutrient-rich diet can help maintain healthy skin and hair.

Lower sex drive

Some women notice a decrease in libido due to hormonal changes, vaginal dryness, and/or fatigue. If a lower sex drive affects your quality of life or relationships, talk to us about options like hormone therapy. Lifestyle adjustments can also be beneficial.

Joint and muscle pain

Joint and muscle aches and pains can increase as estrogen levels decline. This is due to inflammation and changes in how the body retains fluids. Staying active with low-impact exercises like yoga, swimming, or walking can help reduce discomfort and keep your body flexible.

Menopause treatments

Our board-certified urogynecologist Denise Molina Furlong, MD, and her team offer a holistic range of treatments to help you manage menopause, including:

• Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
• Bone health assessments
• Heart health monitoring
• Nutritional counseling
• Weight management
• Tailored fitness and exercise programs
• Pelvic health assessments
• Sexual health services
• Mental health support
• Sleep management programs
• Educational workshops
• Pelvic floor exercises and rehabilitation

Menopause is a significant transition, but understanding the signs can help you navigate it confidently. 

If you think you might be entering menopause, call us or book an appointment online at the Chicago Center for Women’s Health.