Menopause is a natural part of life for women, but its onset can be troubling if you don’t know the symptoms. Menopause begins once you have not had a menstrual period for 12 consecutive months—you’ll want to visit your local women’s health clinic for a confirmation. Before this, you’ll be perimenopausal, and begin experiencing a range of symptoms from hot flashes to irregular periods; take a look at a few of them below.   

5 Signs You May Be Menopausal 

1. Irregular Periods 

One of the most visible signs of perimenopause is irregular periods. You may bleed more or less than usual, and periods may be shorter or longer in duration with occasional spotting. You may also miss some periods. If you miss a period, take a pregnancy test to ensure you’re not pregnant. If you aren’t, you are most likely in the beginning stages of menopause. If you’ve not had your period for 12 consecutive months and began spotting, it could indicate a serious condition. Visit your women’s health clinic for an examination. 

2. Hot Flashes 

Hot flashes are another telltale sign of menopause. They usually consist of a sudden warm feeling in your upper body. Your skin may redden, and you might feel sweaty or flushed. Hot flashes can last as little as 30 seconds or more than 10 minutes. If your symptoms are severe, talk to your women’s health provider about treatment options. 

3. Mood Swings 

Depression and mood swings are common in perimenopausal and menopausal women because of changes in hormone production. You may feel irritable, depressed, or experience extreme highs and lows which shift within a short period. Talk to your OBGYN if depression or mood swings are affecting your life or work. 

4. Frequent Urination or Incontinence 

Many women experience incontinence during menopause. You might also feel the need to urinate frequently even when your bladder isn’t full or experience painful urination. This is because the lining of the vagina and urethra thins and tissues lose elasticity during menopause. The pelvic muscles might also weaken. Stay hydrated and do Kegel exercises to fend off urinary incontinence. You can also visit your women’s health clinic to see what medications are available. 

5. Trouble Sleeping 

Doctors recommend adults get an average of seven to eight hours of sleep. But during perimenopause and menopause, you may have trouble falling and staying asleep. You might also wake up earlier than normal and have difficulty getting back to sleep. Try listening to soothing music, taking a warm bath, or reading before bed to relax your mind and body. 

Ogeechee OB-GYN in Statesboro, GA, is one of the area’s most trusted women’s clinics. Visit them if you’re experiencing menopause symptoms; these skilled gynecologists also offer tube reversal, fertility treatment, and general women’s health services. Call (912) 871-6206 or visit their website to make an appointment.