How Do You Know If You’re In Menopause?

The most telling sign that menopause is approaching is the irregularity of periods. Skipping a period or two is common. Menstrual cycles may also be shorter periods may be heavier or lighter than usual.

Most symptoms usually ease in the years after menopause, but low levels of estrogen may cause other health problems because estrogen influences so many things. Low estrogen levels increase risk for bone loss, known as osteoporosis, and also cardiovascular disease, as estrogen has a protective action on blood vessels against cholesterol plaques.

Low estrogen also weakens the tissues supporting the urethra, causing urine leakage or urinary incontinence. Risk for urinary infections also increases after menopause. While menopause is just a natural stage of life and doesn’t require medical treatment, it is important to have healthy diet and physical exercise.