In this week’s blog I give an overview of the signs that can indicate that we are on our Menopause journey. There are more than 30 recognised signs of the Menopause, some are well known such as hot flushes, night sweats, brain fog and mood swings, but some are more surprising. Sometimes it’s these surprising ones that give that ‘aha’ moment that tell us we are not going mad, but we are on our journey to the wisdom years.
These signs are due to the changing levels of the hormones oestrogen and progesterone as we go through the Menopause. These hormones play a key role in our bodies, so it’s no wonder that they impact different parts of our bodies, and not just our reproductive system. These signs can also be indicators of other imbalances in the body so if you are concerned about them then speak to a health professional.
So what are the signs?
Click on each item for an overview of the sign.
Hot Flushes
A common sign characterised by a feeling of increasing heat that comes on suddenly (and when we least want them to i.e. in meetings!) and usually affects the upper part of body. Sweating, dizziness and heart palpitations can accompany hot flushes.
Night Sweats
Irregular/Heavy/Painful Periods
Anxiety/Panic Attacks
Depression
Mood Swings/Irritability
Brain Fog
Bladder Symptoms
Low Libido
Heart Palpitations
Insomnia/Sleeping Difficulties
Vaginal Changes/Breast Tenderness
Joint Pain/Muscle Tension/Stiffness
Altered Skin Sensations/Skin Changes
Fatigue
Headaches/Migraines/Dizziness
Body Odour Changes
Altered Sense of Smell/Taste
Burning mouth/Metallic Taste/Dental Issues
Hair Changes/Brittle Nails
Osteoporosis/Osteopenia
Weight Gain
Low self-Esteem/Lack of Motivation
Allergies
Dry Eyes/Mouth
Digestive Changes
Breathing Difficulties
Phew!! As we travel on our Menopause journey it is definitely a good idea to keep a journal/notebook of the signs we are experiencing. By tuning into our bodies and recognising the signs, we can then take positive steps to manage the signs and hopefully reduce the number we experience.
If you are on your Menopause journey have a go at my Dragonfly Bingo to see how many signs you recognise going on for you. Looking back on my Menopause journey, I was only about 3 away from a full house!
It’s important to note that not every woman will experience all of the signs and the signs we experience will also change as we travel on our journey. The number and nature of signs that we experience will be as individual as we are and will reflect our own unique journeys. So don’t fret if you are experiencing different signs to other women, just remember you are on your own unique journey and you are doing marvellous.
Next time I lift the veil on brain fog as we enter the wonder years.
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