7 Often Overlooked Signs of Menopause

As women approach menopausal age, they undergo various changes that affect their physical, psychological, and emotional well-being. While menopause typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, many women are experiencing early menopause due to unhealthy lifestyle and dietary choices. Beyond the commonly recognized symptoms like weight gain, hot flashes, and irregular periods, there are subtler indicators of perimenopause that often go unnoticed. Tammana Singh, Menopause Coach and founder of Menoveda, highlights seven often overlooked signs of menopause.

1. Vaginal Dryness: If you’ve noticed increased dryness and itchiness in your intimate area, it may be a sign of menopause. Decreased estrogen levels during menopause can lead to thinning of vulvar tissue, causing itchiness and a higher susceptibility to inflammation, along with an increased risk of urinary infections.
2. Increased Urination: Estrogen deficiency can disrupt bladder function, leading to a sudden urge to urinate without passing much urine. This can also contribute to urinary tract infections (UTIs). Pay attention to triggers like caffeine, acidic foods, citrus foods, and alcohol.
3. Tender Breasts: While breast tenderness is common during periods, it can also be a warning sign of menopause, especially if experienced in your 40s. Seek medical advice if breast pain becomes unbearable and adopt a healthy lifestyle and diet to ease symptoms.
4. Sleep Issues: Hormonal fluctuations can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to insomnia and sleep disturbances. If sleep problems coincide with other signs, consult your gynecologist regarding menopause-related sleep issues.
5. Dizziness: One of the subtlest signs of menopause is dizziness, often overlooked. Hormonal fluctuations can affect blood sugar stability, resulting in regular episodes of dizziness.
6. Mood Swings: Mood swings, commonly associated with PMS, are prevalent in perimenopausal women but often disregarded. These emotional fluctuations can impact personal and professional relationships, necessitating support from family members.
7. Decreased Libido: Entering menopause often coincides with a reduced sex drive. Don’t attribute it solely to stress and fatigue; it’s a sign of declining estrogen levels that should not be ignored.

These subtle signs of menopause can affect overall health. Seek guidance from an experienced doctor or menopause coach to effectively manage menopausal symptoms and address these issues.

_{Re-reported from the article originally published in The News 18 English}