The menopause is a normal part of the female life cycle, spelling the end of ovulation and menstruation. The menopause can be a difficult time for many women, as hormonal changes can cause a range of unpleasant symptoms, both physical and mental. While the majority of women start the menopause between the ages of 45 and 55, the process can begin much earlier or later, depending on the individual. Here are five signs that you’re approaching the menopause.

Irregular Periods

Changes in the frequency and duration of periods are common indicators that the menopause is approaching. Fluctuating hormone levels can cause irregular periods, missed periods and spotting between periods. Periods may also become heavier or lighter, with or without menstrual cramps. While changes in the menstrual cycle are common before and during the menopause, they could also be a sign of serious illness, so it’s important to consult a doctor.

 

 

 

Hot Flashes

 

Over 70% of all women will experience hot flashes as they approach the menopause. Hot flashes are characterized by sudden and unexpected waves of extreme heat, excessive sweating, patches of reddened skin and an increase in heart rate. Hot flashes are harmless, but the symptoms can be intense and distressing, lasting anywhere from a few seconds to a few minutes. Some women are awakened during the night with hot flashes, also known as night sweats.

 

 

 

Mood Swings

 

Fluctuating hormones can cause mood swings, which often occur suddenly and without warning. You may experience sudden bouts of unprovoked irritation, irrational anger or unexplained sadness. Many women find that they are moved to tears more easily as the menopause approaches while some women become impatient with loved ones. Mood swings can impact on relationships, as well as work and social life, but mood changes can usually be managed with relaxation techniques and regular exercise.

 

 

 

Fatigue

Physical and mental fatigue can be another sign that the menopause is about to begin. Many women experience low energy levels, excessive tiredness and feeling physically drained or weak for several months, sometimes even years, before onset of the menopause. Symptoms of mental fatigue, including memory problems, brain fog and having trouble concentrating, can also be present during this time. As fatigue can also be a sign of several different health conditions, always talk to your doctor about any unexplained tiredness.

 

 

 

Low Libido

 

Loss of sexual interest is a common problem for women approaching the menopause, as irregular hormone levels can reduce libido. In addition, hormone imbalances can cause physical changes, such as vaginal dryness, that make sexual activity physically uncomfortable, or sometimes even painful. The fatigue and mood swings associated with hormone fluctuations can also have an impact on sexual desire, leading some women to avoid physical contact altogether.

 

While the menopause is an unavoidable part of a woman’s life, there are many different treatments, both conventional and alternative, that can help to alleviate unpleasant symptoms and improve your quality of life. Recognizing the early warning signs that the menopause will soon begin enables you to plan ahead and talk to your doctor about possible treatments.

 

 

 

How to alleviate the symptoms and discomfort

 

Menopausal symptoms can be uncomfortable to the point that it could even hinder your day to day tasks. All the symptoms are cause by the lack of and unstable levels of estrogen in the body. In order to alleviate the symptoms and discomfort, you have to supply your body with the estrogen that it lacks.

 

There are a couple of estrogen options that you can take and use, from pills that you can take to gels that you have to apply directly. The safest option however is by taking pills that are rich in phytoestrogen.

 

Phytoestrogen are estrogen that are made from plants so it’s all organic, natural, unaltered and safe. It’s much safer than synthetic estrogens out there.

 

You can get high quality phytoestrogen in pill form from Vagifirm.com.