What are the Symptoms of Menopause?

Most of us associate perimenopause and menopause with hot flashes and changes in menstrual cycle. But there are many other symptoms. Sometimes my clients are experiencing manifestations of this life change that they do not associate them with menopause. Review this list and see if any apply to you.

 

Comprehensive Guide to Symptoms of Menopause | Signs & Solutions

Comprehensive List: Symptoms of Menopause?

Menstrual Cycle Changes

  • Irregular periods
  • Skipped periods
  • Shorter or longer cycles
  • Heavier or lighter bleeding
  • Spotting between periods

 Vasomotor Symptoms

  • Hot flashes (sudden heat sensation, flushing)
  • Night sweats
  • Cold chills after hot flashes

 Sleep Disturbances

  • Difficulty falling asleep
  • Waking up frequently during the night
  • Early morning awakenings
  • Insomnia
  • Sleep-disordered breathing (e.g., snoring, sleep apnea)

Urogenital Symptoms

  • Vaginal dryness
  • Vaginal itching or burning
  • Painful intercourse (dyspareunia)
  • Decreased vaginal lubrication
  • Urinary urgency
  • Increased urinary frequency
  • Painful urination (dysuria)
  • Urinary tract infections (recurrent)
  • Stress or urge incontinence

Cognitive & Neurological Symptoms

  • Brain fog (difficulty concentrating)
  • Memory lapses
  • Poor word recall
  • Decreased attention span
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Headaches or migraines (sometimes worsening)

Psychological & Mood Symptoms

  • Anxiety
  • Depression or low mood
  • Irritability
  • Mood swings
  • Panic attacks
  • Feeling overwhelmed
  • Loss of motivation
  • Decreased self-esteem

Physical & Somatic Symptoms

  • Breast tenderness or pain
  • Weight gain (especially around the abdomen)
  • Bloating
  • Fatigue or low energy
  • Joint pain or stiffness
  • Muscle aches
  • Tingling or numbness in hands and feet (paresthesia)
  • Burning mouth syndrome
  • Dry eyes or mouth
  • Itchy skin
  • Hair thinning or loss
  • Acne or changes in skin texture
  • Increased facial hair
  • Changes in body odor
  • Heart palpitations or awareness of heartbeat
  • Digestive issues (e.g., constipation, indigestion)
  • Sensitivity to temperature

Sexual Function

  • Decreased libido
  • Reduced arousal or response
  • Decreased orgasm intensity or frequency

 Long-Term Health Changes (Postmenopause Risk Factors)

  • Bone loss leading to osteoporosis
  • Increased cardiovascular disease risk
  • Changes in lipid profile (cholesterol)
  • Decreased skin elasticity and collagen
  • Increased risk of metabolic syndrome
  • Insulin resistance or blood sugar instability

For more detailed information about symptoms of menopause and management, visit the National Institute on Aging’s menopause resource page.

Ready to understand and manage your menopause symptoms with expert guidance?
Schedule your FREE 30-minute consultation with Certified Nutritionist & Wellness Coach Lorie Eber today!

📧 Email: eberlorie@gmail.com
💬 Take the first step toward a healthier, more comfortable menopause journey with personalized support and nutrition coaching.