Menopause Transition Symptoms

By: Jennifer Ellis, FNP-C

Hot flashes and irregular menstrual periods are the symptoms we frequently associate with perimenopause. But since each of us will respond to the hormonal fluctuation storm of the menopause transition differently, there are many other symptoms that are less frequently recognized as being related. 

Symptoms can start in your late 30s and last on average 5-7 years, but can last up to 10 years. Unfortunately, symptoms related to perimenopause are commonly under-recognized, under-treated, or misdiagnosed, as women often see several medical professionals before finding help. Symptoms may include the following:

• Fatigue/low energy

• Brain fog

• Insomnia

• Worsened PMS or irritability

• Mood changes/increased anxiety

• Low libido

• Heart palpitations

• Weight gain (especially in the abdomen)

• Joint or muscle pain (especially in the hip)

• Frozen shoulder

• Headaches

• Hair loss

• Skin & gum changes/dry skin/collagen loss

• Tinnitus

• Painful sex/vaginal dryness

• Night sweats

• Vertigo 

• Urinary changes/leaking of urine/recurrent UTIs

• Bowel changes/bloating

• Itchy ears

• New food sensitivities 

• Decreased Vitamin D

• Bone weakening

• Increased cholesterol

• And more!

At Progressive Wellness & Aesthetics, all MHT consultations are personalized and come with a welcome pack full of evidence-based lifestyle change suggestions and actionable changes to help ease your symptoms as you navigate the menopause transition. You will also get a high-protein meal plan made by a certified nutritionist. We want to help you succeed and lifestyle modifications must be addressed, as they are too often overlooked. MHT is often part of your personalized plan as well, and you can learn more in the article: Menopausal Hormone Replacement Therapy: Feel Like Yourself Again.