10 signs of menopause

The transition period toward menopause, known as perimenopause, is characterized by a series of changes in the body and mind.

Unfortunately, this sign is sometimes unpleasant and difficult to deal with. Here are some of the changes women can face during this phase:

1. Irregular periods of menstruation
   The menstrual cycle begins to show signs of interference, may be longer or shorter than normal. The cycle changes when the flow becomes much heavier or lighter. Not surprisingly, symptoms of premenstrual syndrome can also become more prominent.

2. Weight gain
   Many factors will increase the likelihood of weight gain including lower estrogen levels, insulin resistance, lower metabolism, and increased production of stress hormones. Most women gain weight in the abdominal area, and some may even notice changes in their body shape.

3. Mood swings
   Women are vulnerable to varying degrees of irritability, sadness, anxiety and tension during this phase. According to the Australian Menopause Center, mood swings in menopause and perimenopause "can be attributed to hormonal fluctuations associated with an imbalance in serotonin levels."

4. Dry vagina
   According to Dr. Sara Gottfried, gynecologist and founder of Gottfried Institute, California, the vagina may degenerate because estrogen or testosterone production decreases. This causes less lubrication and thinning of the vaginal wall, or so-called vaginal atrophy, which can make sexual contact painful. This problem can be solved by using a moisturizer or lubricant according to the advice of a gynecologist.

5. Pain
   You may start experiencing pain and discomfort in many parts of the body. Muscle pain and joint pain are considered the most common occurrences. Those who are susceptible to migraine can see a surge of these symptoms until menopause arrive. Some women may also feel pain and pain in their breasts.

6. Bad sleep quality
   Night sweats can negatively affect sleep quality during perimenopause and menopause. Approximately 35-50 percent of perimenopausal women suffer sudden body heat waves with sweating and flushing throughout the night. This is often exacerbated by stress, and as a result, women may experience fatigue on a regular basis due to poor sleep quality.

7. Changes in libido
   According to Mayo Clinic, some women may "experience decreased libido during these hormonal changes," while others may continue to experience unchanged or even increased sex drive. However, vaginal atrophy can lower satisfaction and make women lose interest in sex.

8. Cognitive decline
   Many studies show memory and thinking skills that are affected during perimenopause and menopause. Participants in this study reported forgetfulness and concentration-related problems. Lack of sleep can also contribute to irregularities in memory.

9. Urine Problems
   Depletion of the vaginal tissue and loss of elasticity increases your susceptibility to infection. Increasing the frequency of urinary tract infections can be a sign of approaching menopause. Other symptoms include pelvic floor weakening, reduced bladder control and frequent urination.

10. Skin and hair brittle
    Hair can lose moisture and become more susceptible to breaking and branching. Finger nails are also easily broken and experience dryness and discoloration. On the skin can look more real changes such as wrinkles, oily properties, acne, facial hair growth and freckles.