Am I in Menopause?

Your Guide to Recognizing Menopause Symptoms & Getting Support

As a women's health nurse who specializes in menopause, I see the challenges and uncertainties women face during this time. But I also see incredible strength and resilience. Here's the truth: menopause is a natural part of life, but it shouldn't have to diminish your quality of life. 

Every year, around 2 million women go through menopause, but studies show that doctors do not treat 75 percent of women with menopausal symptoms who are seeking help. To advocate for the care you deserve, the first step is recognizing the signs (did you know there are 34 different symptoms of menopause?).

This guide explains the signs of menopause, clarifies the difference between perimenopause and menopause, and suggests resources to help you feel your best during this period. Our hope is to empower you with information that will ultimately help you regain your footing.

Understanding Your Changing Body

The journey through menopause can vary widely from one individual to another. While some women experience a smooth transition, others face a wave of symptoms that can be disruptive and frustrating. 

Menopause typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, with an average of 51 in North America. Doctors diagnose it after 12 consecutive months without a period, or surgically with the removal of both ovaries. If you have had a hysterectomy or ablation, it may be hard to know when menopause starts.

If you have any of these symptoms, it could mean you are going through perimenopause or menopause. 

The most common signs of menopause include: Irregular Menstrual Cycles: As women approach menopause, their menstrual cycles may become irregular, with changes in the frequency, duration, and intensity of periods. Irregular periods are often one of the first indicators of impending menopause. However, hormonal contraception/birth control may mask this sign.

Hot Flashes and Night Sweats: Also known as vasomotor symptoms, these symptoms include sudden intense heat, flushing, and sweating. Heart palpitations or anxiety may accompany them. These episodes can occur during the day (hot flashes) or at night (night sweats) and may vary in frequency and severity. On average vasomotor symptoms last for 7 years.

Vaginal Dryness & Discomfort: Low estrogen levels can make vaginal tissues thin, dry, and inflamed. This can cause symptoms such as dryness, itching, burning, and discomfort during sex.

Sleep Disturbances: Many women experience disruptions in their sleep patterns during menopause, including difficulty falling asleep, frequent awakenings, and overall poor sleep quality. Night sweats and hormonal fluctuations can contribute to these sleep disturbances.

Mood Changes: Changes in mood can be caused by fluctuating hormone levels. This can lead to symptoms like irritability, mood swings, anxiety, depression, and decreased libido, ultimately impacting emotional wellbeing.

Changes in Skin & Hair: Menopause can change your skin and hair, causing dryness, thinning, less elasticity, and more facial hair growth. (hirsutism).

Urinary Symptoms: Some women may experience urinary symptoms during menopause, such as increased frequency, urgency, incontinence, or recurrent urinary tract infections (UTIs).

Perimenopause vs. Menopause

Think of perimenopause as the warm-up act to menopause. Perimenopause is the transitional phase leading up to menopause, marked by hormonal fluctuations and irregular periods. Women may experience menopausal symptoms during this time but still have occasional periods. Perimenopause can last for several years before reaching menopause.

As mentioned, menopause is diagnosed when a woman has not had a period for twelve months or has had her ovaries removed.

Menopause Diagnosis & Hormone Testing 

Women experiencing symptoms often ask me if they should have their hormones tested. Unless your healthcare provider suspects premature menopause before the age of 40, a condition called Primary Ovarian Insufficiency, hormone testing (estrogen, progesterone, FSH) is generally not necessary. 

Hormones not only fluctuate, but hormone levels affect every woman differently. If you are in your 40s and 50s with menopausal symptoms that is all your provider needs to know. Doctors should base treatment on a woman's symptoms and treatment responses, not lab values.

Your healthcare provider may want to do hormone testing to rule out other health issues that could be causing symptoms. For example, your doctor may check thyroid function, as thyroid issues can mimic menopausal symptoms. A healthcare provider might also recommend a pregnancy test. Pregnancy becomes less likely in your 40s and 50s, but you can still get pregnant until you reach menopause. 

Finding Relief & Support 

Navigating menopause can be a challenging and emotionally charged experience. Surround yourself with a supportive network of healthcare providers, family members, friends, or even support groups that will lift you up during this transition. 

Here are some resources to aid you on your journey:

Compassionate Care: Finding a healthcare provider specializing in menopause can make all the difference. They have the expertise and understanding to guide you towards personalized treatment options for your unique needs. For a list of certified menopause practitioners, visit The Menopause Society Care Directory. 

Support Groups: Connecting online or in person with other women going through menopause can provide invaluable emotional support, validation and practical advice.

Educational Resources: Educate yourself about menopause through reputable books, articles, websites, and educational materials. Understanding the physiological changes and available treatment options can empower you to make informed decisions about your health.

Remember, You’re Not Alone

Menopause is an inevitable phase in a woman's life, but it’s not a journey you have to take alone. There are resources and healthcare professionals available to support you every step of the way. It may not feel like it at the moment, but with the right guidance and treatment, you can thrive throughout menopause!

By taking the time to read this you’ve already taken the first step towards feeling like you again.