So what are the signs you are in menopause?
Menopause is a natural stage in a woman’s life, but recognising when you’ve officially reached menopause can be confusing. Many women experience symptoms for years before their periods stop completely, making it difficult to determine whether they are in perimenopause or have fully transitioned into menopause.
If you’re asking yourself, "Am I in menopause?", we will help you understand the key signs, the difference between perimenopause and menopause, and what steps you can take to manage symptoms effectively.
Understanding Menopause
Menopause is defined as the point when a woman has not had a menstrual period for 12 consecutive months. After this, she is considered postmenopausal. However, the process of reaching menopause can take years, with symptoms often starting during perimenopause, the transitional phase leading up to menopause.
The average age for menopause in the UK is 51, though it can happen earlier or later due to genetics, medical conditions, or lifestyle factors.
Am I in Perimenopause or Menopause?
Typically starts in your 40s but can begin earlier.
Oestrogen and progesterone levels fluctuate, causing irregular periods.
Symptoms like hot flushes, mood swings, and sleep disturbances appear.
Pregnancy is still possible, though fertility declines.
Menopause
Occurs when you have gone 12 months without a period.
Oestrogen and progesterone levels remain low.
Symptoms may continue but often become less severe.
Fertility is no longer possible.
Signs That You Might Be in Menopause
If you suspect you’re in menopause, look for these common signs:
1. Your Periods Have Stopped for 12 Months
The most definitive sign of menopause is the absence of periods for one full year. If you haven’t had a period for several months but then experience light bleeding, you may still be in perimenopause.
These sudden waves of heat, often affecting the face, neck, and chest, are among the most common menopause symptoms. Night sweats can disrupt sleep, leaving you feeling tired during the day.
3. Mood Swings and Anxiety
Hormonal changes can cause irritability, anxiety, and low mood, sometimes resembling symptoms of depression. Mood swings often feel unpredictable and intense.
4. Sleep Problems
Many women report difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep during menopause. Night sweats, anxiety, and hormonal changes all contribute to poor sleep quality.
5. Vaginal Dryness and Discomfort
Reduced oestrogen levels can cause vaginal dryness, irritation, and discomfort during intimacy. This can also increase the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs). (NHS - Vaginal Dryness Treatment)
6. Weight Gain and Slower Metabolism
Hormonal shifts can make weight management more challenging, particularly around the abdomen. A slower metabolism can lead to increased fat storage.
7. Brain Fog and Forgetfulness
Some women notice difficulty concentrating, memory lapses, and brain fog, which can be frustrating in daily life.
8. Changes in Hair and Skin
Lower oestrogen levels can lead to thinning hair, dry skin, and increased fine lines. Some women also experience hair growth in new areas, such as the chin.
How to Confirm If You Are in Menopause
If you suspect you’ve reached menopause, there are a few ways to confirm it:
1. Track Your Menstrual Cycle
Keep a record of your periods to determine whether they have stopped for 12 consecutive months. Irregular periods are common during perimenopause, so tracking your cycle can help you spot the transition to menopause.
If your periods have stopped and you’re experiencing common menopause symptoms like hot flushes, sleep disturbances, and mood changes, it’s likely that you’re in menopause.
3. Blood Tests
Your doctor may recommend a follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) test to measure hormone levels. High FSH levels indicate that your ovaries are producing less oestrogen, a sign of menopause. However, because hormone levels fluctuate, this test is not always conclusive.
4. Consult a Menopause Specialist
If you’re unsure whether you are in menopause or need guidance on managing symptoms, speaking to a menopause specialist can provide clarity and personalised treatment options.
How to Manage Menopause Symptoms
If you’ve confirmed that you’re in menopause, there are several ways to manage symptoms and improve your overall well-being:
1. Adopt a Healthy Diet
Increase Calcium & Vitamin D – Supports bone health and reduces the risk of osteoporosis.
Eat Whole Foods – Lean proteins, healthy fats, and fibre-rich foods help balance hormones.
Avoid Triggers – Caffeine, alcohol, and processed foods can worsen symptoms like hot flushes.
2. Stay Active
Cardio Exercises – Walking, swimming, and cycling improve heart health and energy levels.
Strength Training – Helps maintain muscle mass and bone density.
Yoga & Mindfulness – Reduces stress and promotes relaxation.
3. Improve Sleep Quality
Stick to a consistent bedtime routine.
Avoid screens at least an hour before bed.
Practise relaxation techniques, such as meditation or deep breathing.
4. Explore Medical Treatments
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) – Can help relieve hot flushes, mood swings, and vaginal dryness by restoring declining hormone levels. (NHS - HRT Overview)
Non-Hormonal Options – Vaginal oestrogen, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), and certain medications can help manage symptoms.
5. Seek Emotional Support
Join a menopause support group to share experiences with others going through the same transition.
Talk to a counsellor or therapist if mood swings or anxiety are overwhelming.
When to Seek Professional Menopause Help
If menopause symptoms are affecting your quality of life, seeking professional advice is important. Consider speaking to a menopause specialist if:
Symptoms are severe or disruptive to daily activities.
You experience unusual or heavy bleeding.
You are struggling with mood swings, depression, or anxiety.
You want to explore HRT or alternative treatments.
You have concerns about long-term health risks like osteoporosis or heart disease.
The Surrey Menopause Clinic in Kingston provides expert menopause care for women experiencing symptoms and needing professional guidance.
Contact us here to book a consultation and get the right menopause support for you.
Final Thoughts on Recognising Menopause
If you’ve been asking yourself, "Am I in menopause?", the key indicator is whether your periods have stopped for 12 months and you’re experiencing common menopause symptoms. Understanding these changes and seeking appropriate support can help you manage menopause more effectively.
Menopause is a significant transition, but with the right guidance and lifestyle adjustments, you can navigate it confidently and maintain a high quality of life.
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