Categories: Menopause

Signs and Symptoms of Menopause

Wondering if you are in menopause? While some women will immediately know if they are entering menopause, it can be difficult for others to tell. Some women will experience every sign and symptom of menopause there is, and others will experience minimal symptoms or even none at all. Since menopause is truly different for every woman, it is essential for a woman who believes she is entering menopause to make an appointment with her OBGYN so she can know for sure.

What exactly is menopause?

Finding out what menopause means is important for all women. It is something that every woman will go through, and it usually starts sometime in their late forties or early fifties. It is a time when a woman is transitioning out of her reproductive years, which means she’s entering a new phase of her life that allows her complete freedom. When a woman experiences certain signs and symptoms that are difficult to deal with, she needs to see an experienced OBGYN to learn about the treatment options available to her.

Signs and symptoms of menopause

Menopause is confirmed when a woman has not had her period for 12 consecutive months. The list below includes some of the more common signs and symptoms women experience when going through menopause.

Hot flashes

Hot flashes are a common sign of menopause, as well as perimenopause. A hot flash is a sudden feeling of heat that comes in waves over parts of the body or the entire body. They can last for one minute or a few minutes. They can occur a few times every week or a few times every hour.

Incontinence

The reduction of estrogen often causes the lining of the urethra to become thinner, which in turn causes a woman to feel such an urgency to urinate that she does not always make it to the bathroom on time.

Mood changes

Changes in a woman’s mood, more commonly known as mood swings, are due to the lowering of hormone levels. When a woman’s hormones begin to deplete, it tends to cause various types of changes throughout her body, e.g., fatigue and irritability.

Inability to focus and concentrate

Changes in hormonal levels can also lead to a woman’s inability to focus or concentrate, also known as brain fog. This is especially true of estrogen, which connects with parts of the brain that have to do with verbal memory and organizing information.

Gaining weight

A drop in a certain type of estrogen can potentially lead to a woman gaining a few pounds. Estradiol is a form of estrogen that assists in regulating a woman’s metabolism, as well as her overall body weight. When this type of estrogen begins to deplete, it is not uncommon for a woman to gain weight.

Have questions?

Now that you know the signs and symptoms of menopause, are you entering this stage of your life? Since every woman is different, it is necessary for you to be evaluated by an OBGYN to understand more about your menopausal state. During your appointment, feel free to bring all of your questions about entering menopause with you, so you can get the answers you are looking for.

Request an appointment here: https://eckhardtobgyn.com or call Donald Eckhardt Jr., M.D. , Kari Eckhardt W.H.N.P., C.N.M. at (346) 201-4716 for an appointment in our Tomball office.

Check out what others are saying about our services on Yelp: Menopause in Tomball, TX.

Recent Posts

Seeing A Nurse Practitioner For Women's Health Concerns

A nurse practitioner can help address women’s health concerns, even when the obstetrician-gynecologist (OB-GYN) is unavailable. These providers approach reproductive, gynecological, and preventive care with a focus on the patient’s needs and preferences. From routine health screenings to specialized support for hormonal changes, nurse practitioners are trusted for their ability to offer compassionate and comprehensive…

C-Sections: What To Expect From The Procedure And Recovery

A C-section, also known as a cesarean section, is a surgical procedure used to deliver the baby through incisions made in the abdomen and uterus. An OBGYN typically performs this procedure when a vaginal delivery is not possible or poses a risk to the mother or baby. Although many women are familiar with natural childbirth,…

Preparing For Labor And Delivery With The Help Of A Pregnancy Doctor

A pregnancy doctor offers essential support when preparing for labor and delivery. Throughout the final trimester, patients benefit from expert monitoring, personalized birth planning, and guidance to ensure a safe delivery. By working closely with an experienced pregnancy doctor, families can approach the birth experience with greater confidence and clarity.As delivery approaches, a pregnancy doctor…

What To Expect During A Visit To The Gynecologist

The first visit to a gynecologist is a proactive and engaging way to participate in your healthcare. This appointment focuses on your needs and goals regarding the healthcare surrounding your reproductive system. While feeling nervous is normal, knowing what to expect during the appointment can help calm your nerves.For many individuals, especially those attending their…

Donald Eckhardt Jr., M.D. , Kari Eckhardt W.H.N.P., C.N.M.

Share
Published by
Donald Eckhardt Jr., M.D. , Kari Eckhardt W.H.N.P., C.N.M.

Recent Posts

Seeing a Nurse Practitioner For Women’s Health Concerns

Nurse practitioners support OB-GYNs in delivering comprehensive, timely patient care.

4 days ago

C-Sections: What To Expect From the Procedure and Recovery

Recovery after a C-Section can take longer than a vaginal delivery, as it is a…

1 month ago

Preparing for Labor and Delivery With the Help of a Pregnancy Doctor

Having a knowledgeable pregnancy doctor involved in labor and delivery brings both peace of mind…

2 months ago

What to Expect During a Visit to the Gynecologist

For many individuals, especially those attending their appointment with a new practice, the idea of…

3 months ago

What to Expect from a Pap Smear

If you have never received a pap smear or it has been many years since…

4 months ago

How a Midwife Enhances the Birth Experience

While a midwife focuses on natural birth and continuous support, an OBGYN is available for…

5 months ago