When you think of menopause, hot flashes and night sweats probably come to mind. But menopause and perimenopause can bring a whole host (roughly 40) of unexpected symptoms. Let’s explore what your body might be trying to tell you.
When Does Menopause Start?
Menopause typically begins between 45 and 55, with the average age being 51 (although, it can happen at any time). Perimenopause, the transition phase, can start as early as your late 30s or early 40s. It’s common to experience perimenopause symptoms for up to 10 years before menopause.
What Are the First Signs of Menopause?
Irregular periods are usually the first signal. But there’s more:
- Mood swings
- Sleep disturbance
- Fatigue
Everyone’s experience will be different. There’s no one-size-fits-all for menopause, and there’s lots of unexpected symptoms you might notice as well as the better known offenders.
Unexpected Symptoms of Perimenopause and Menopause
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Burning Mouth Syndrome: Tingling, burning sensation in the mouth due to fluctuating hormones.
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Electric Shock Sensations: Sudden, sharp jolts often linked to hormonal changes affecting nerves.
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Tinnitus: Ringing in the ears can worsen during perimenopause.
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Body Odour Changes: Armpits that smell like onions? Hormonal fluctuations can alter your natural scent.
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Skin Crawling (Formication): A sensation of insects crawling on the skin.
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Joint Pain: Aching joints are common, even without prior arthritis.
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Allergies: New or intensified allergic reactions.
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Hair Loss or Thinning: Hormonal shifts affect hair growth cycles.
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Bloating: Hormonal imbalances can cause fluid retention.
Not sure if you’re experiencing perimenopause? Check your symptoms with our Perimenopause Symptom Checker.
What Are the 39 Symptoms of Menopause?
From hot flashes to anxiety, the 39 symptoms cover physical, emotional, and psychological changes. This is not to scare you. Many women will experience just a couple of symptoms, but there’s power in knowing what may be caused by menopausal hormone changes, and what’s not.
If you’re experiencing the following symptoms for the first time, it’s still a good idea to check in with your doctor, to make sure there’s no other health issues that you may need treatment for.
Read the full list here:
- Allergies
- Anxiety
- Bladder infections
- Bloating
- Body Odour
- Bowel changes
- Bone fractures
- Brain fog and memory issues
- Breast soreness
- Breathing trouble
- Brittle nails
- Burning mouth syndrome
- Concentration problems
- Dental problems
- Depression
- Digestive issues
- Dizziness
- Dry eyes
- Dry, itchy skin
- Fertility difficulties
- Hair loss or thinning
- Headaches
- Heart palpitations
- Hot flushes
- Irritability
- Joint pain
- Low energy
- Low libido
- Mood swings
- Night sweats
- Panic attacks
- Restless legs
- Sleep issues
- Taste and smell changes
- Tingles or sharp sensations
- Vaginal dryness
- Weak bladder
- Weight gain
How Long Does Menopause Last?
Perimenopause can last 4-8 years. Menopause itself is confirmed after 12 months without a period. Post-menopause symptoms can be milder, but it’s normal for them to linger for years, as your hormone baseline levels will now be lower.
If you’re struggling with symptoms at any of these stages, we recommend checking out The Menopause Capsule, for daily relief.
What Signals the End of Menopause?
The official end is 12 months after your last period. Symptoms often ease but some, like joint pain or dryness, can persist.
Supporting Your Body Through Menopause
NAYDAYA offers hormone-free solutions like The Menopause Capsule to support you through every stage.
Trusted Resources
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Menopause - Cleveland Clinic
Curious about more symptoms? Explore NAYDAYA for solutions and support.