Is it Hot in Here? Recognizing an Early Menopause Sign

As women approach the age at which they can no longer reproduce, it is important for them to know what is going on with their body, and to watch for an early menopause sign or signs. This will let them know that they are beginning the "change of life." An early menopause sign is usually a symptom of peri-menopause. To know what exactly that is, listed below is some symptoms and causes on this stage of reproductive life:

What Peri-Menopause Is

When a woman reaches her late thirties or early forties, she may begin to experience changes in her body. This process is known as peri-menopause, the point at which the hormones estrogen and progesterone that initiate ovulation are ceasing production. This stage of menopause can last from two to ten years before actual menopause and cessation of menstruation occurs. At this point it becomes very difficult for a woman to become pregnant, as her ovulation rate slows down.

The Signs of Peri-Menopause

An early menopause sign is usually a sudden change or irregularity in your menstrual cycle. Some women experience lighter periods, shorter periods or sometimes two periods within the same month. Another early menopause sign is a hot flash, or sleep problems. These are the most common symptoms of early menopause, and up to 85% of women experience them.

One early menopause sign that may affect your intimate life is your sex drive. As your ovulation is decreasing, so is your desire to have intercourse. This may or may not cause a problem with you and your spouse, but if it does, then be sure to be open and communicate with them about what is going on with your body.

Visiting the Doctor

If you begin to experience an early menopause sign, then you may want to schedule an appointment to see your doctor. Although he or she will probably tell you what you already know is going on, they will give you a professional opinion on what kinds of hormones you should consider taking, or other options to help with the symptoms.

Hormone therapy may be a good choice if the symptoms become too much to handle, or if you want to keep from having your bones degenerate, as estrogen and progesterone aid in keeping your bones strong and healthy. So, with the proper treatment, you are sure to effectively deal with your symptoms.