What Is Menopause and When Does It Start?

Menopause is a natural part of life that females go through. It's the point in time when you’ve gone 12 months without a period, including any spotting. Even though we talk about menopause as a phase of life (including on this site), it's really just a single point in time. The time when your body goes through hormone changes is called the menopausal transition. But let's face it, "menopause" is a lot easier to say and remember, right?

Why do periods stop?

Your periods stop because your body naturally starts making less of the reproductive hormones, estrogen and progesterone. This shift in hormone levels is what causes a lot of the symptoms of menopause. As your hormone levels settle and estrogen levels stay consistently low, many of these symptoms will ease up and even go away. It's like your body is adjusting to a new normal, and it can take some time to find that balance.

Think of it as your body's way of saying, "Hey, it's time for a change."

Why do we care about hormone levels changing?

The decline in estrogen and progesterone can affect more than just your menstrual cycle. These hormones also play a role in your reproductive tract, urinary tract, heart and blood vessels, bones, breasts, skin, hair, mucus membranes, pelvic muscles, and even your brain. So, when these hormones change, a lot of other things in your body can change too.

When does menopause start?

You might be entering the perimenopause stage if your periods are getting unpredictable. They might be shorter, longer, heavier, or lighter, and the time between periods can vary a lot. Eventually, the gaps between periods will get longer until they stop completely. 

The average age of menopause in the U.S. is around age 51, but it can happen (for most people) between age 45 and 55. The symptoms of menopause can start before you officially reach menopause, during a phase called perimenopause.

This whole journey, from the first signs of hormonal changes to your last period, is known as the menopausal transition. The symptoms can last anywhere from 7 to 14 years, which might seem like a long time. But remember, you're not alone in this.

What are the symptoms of menopause?

Every person's experience with menopause is different, just like how we all have different experiences with pregnancy, periods, or puberty. The common thread is the change in hormone levels, especially estrogen. As estrogen levels drop, various parts of your body that rely on it may start to function differently, leading to a range of symptoms. 

This is also a time when many of us are dealing with other life changes, like taking care of aging relatives, supporting kids as they grow up, or making career moves. Some people feel a sense of relief, while others might dread these changes and symptoms.

Here are some of the most common symptoms you might experience during perimenopause and menopause:

• Irregular menstrual periods. Your menstrual cycle might become unpredictable, with periods that are shorter, longer, heavier, or lighter.
• Hot flashes and night sweats. These can be really intense. And at night, they can disrupt your sleep, making you feel like you're in a sauna in the middle of the night.
• Mood changes. You might feel more depressed, anxious, or irritable. Many people describe it as their emotions being on a rollercoaster.
• Sleep problems. Trouble falling asleep or staying asleep. You might find yourself tossing and turning more than usual.
• Vaginal dryness. This can make sex uncomfortable, which can be frustrating and affect your relationship.
• Bladder issues. Such as urinary incontinence, which can be embarrassing but is more common as we age.
• Fatigue. Feeling more tired than usual. You might need more naps or feel drained by the end of the day.
• Heart palpitations. Your heart might feel like it's racing or skipping beats. It can be scary, but it's usually a symptom of the hormonal changes and may not be dangerous.
• Skin changes. Your skin might become drier or more sensitive. You might notice more wrinkles or changes in skin texture.
• Joint aches. You might experience more aches and pains, especially in your joints. It's like your body is reminding you that you're getting older.
• Body changes. Such as weight gain, especially around the midsection. It can be frustrating to see the numbers on the scale change.
• Hair thinning. Your hair might become thinner or more brittle. It's like your hair is going through its own transition.
• Brain fog. This is a way of describing the combination of mental confusion, forgetfulness, and trouble concentrating that may happen.
• Changes in sexual desire. Your libido might fluctuate. Some days you might feel more in the mood, while other days you might not.

What is post menopause? What are the signs that menopause is over?

Post menopause is a stage of life that starts after you haven't had a period for 12 months in a row. The signs that menopause is over include no more periods, fewer or less intense perimenopause and menopause symptoms, and changes in how you feel physically and emotionally. While moving into post menopause can bring new challenges, it also marks a new chapter in life with its own unique opportunities and experiences. It's the end of one journey and the start of a new one.

How do I manage menopause symptoms?

The good news is that there are many ways to manage these symptoms. Menopause hormone therapy can help with a lot of the more bothersome ones. If you're in perimenopause, your doctor might suggest birth control to help manage symptoms. Other medication and lifestyle changes can also be recommended by your doctor.

Whether you're dealing with irregular periods, hot flashes, or urinary incontinence, there are solutions to help you feel more comfortable and in control. It's important to talk to your healthcare provider about what options are best for you. They can offer personalized advice and support to help you navigate this journey.  

If you're looking for additional support, check out our SHOP for curated products to help with menopause. Remember, this is a journey, and it's okay to take it one day at a time.