The 34 symptoms of menopause, explained simply.
Menopause can affect sleep, mood, energy, skin, weight, focus, intimacy, and the way your body feels day to day. This guide gives you a calm, clear place to start.
First, what is menopause?
- Perimenopause is the transition leading up to menopause, when hormones may fluctuate and symptoms can begin.
- Menopause is confirmed after 12 straight months without a period.
- Postmenopause is the stage after menopause, when some symptoms may ease while others can continue.
Perimenopause vs. menopause vs. postmenopause
These stages are connected, but they are not exactly the same.
Perimenopause
The lead-up stage. Periods may become irregular, symptoms can come and go, and hormone changes may feel unpredictable.
Menopause
The point in time when you have gone 12 months without a menstrual period. It is a natural life stage, not an illness.
Postmenopause
The years after menopause. Some symptoms may improve, while changes like vaginal dryness, bone health, or heart health may still need attention.
Every woman’s experience is different. Some women have only a few symptoms. Others feel like everything changes at once. If something feels intense, sudden, or worrying, it is always worth speaking with a healthcare provider.
The 34 symptoms of menopause
Click each symptom to learn more.
Hot flashes
Night sweats
Irregular periods
Sleep disturbances
Vaginal dryness
Reduced libido
Mood swings
Irritability
Depression or anxiety
Weight gain or body composition changes
Hair thinning or texture changes
Skin changes
Joint pain or stiffness
Decreased bone density
Increased cardiovascular disease risk
Urinary frequency or urgency
Urinary incontinence
Migraines or headaches
Breast tenderness or changes
Palpitations or irregular heartbeat
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Digestive issues
Tingling hands, feet, arms, or legs
Burning mouth
Changes in sense of taste
Fatigue
Muscle aches and tension
Electric shock sensations
Itchiness
Brain fog or difficulty concentrating
Memory lapses
Brittle nails
Allergies
Body odor
You do not have to figure this out alone.
Track what you notice, learn what may be connected, and bring your questions to a trusted healthcare provider.