The average age for naturally-occurring menopause is 51, with the typical range being between 40 and 54.

Though every person will experience this differently, some menopause symptoms are more common than others.

There are also symptoms that go beyond undesirable and are considered serious concerns.

A woman lying in bed holding a phone

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The following are symptoms that are commonly reported.

It may be longer between periods, shorter between periods, or a combination of the two.

It’s themenopause symptommost often mentioned by people; up to 75% report it.

When this occurs during sleep, it’s called a night sweat.

Night sweats can disrupt your sleep, which can have an impact on your overall health and wellness.

This makes the tissue more easily damaged and more prone to infection.

Some people see themselves as suddenly unpredictable, which can be unsettling.

Often, it prompts them to seek help for this symptom.

Insomnia

Many people in menopause report a greater tendency to be wakeful.

Weight Gain

Your metabolism will slow with age, so weight gain is common in menopause.

Fatigue

Some people experience profound fatigue during menopause.

Fortunately, it’s usually temporary and the result of your bodys adjustment to lower estrogen.

Decreased Libido

Many people notice that their sexual desire lessens when they become menopausal.

Rare Symptoms

People have reported many unusual ways that their bodies respond to the change in hormones.

Cardiovascular Disease

After menopause, a woman’s risk of cardiovascular disease increases.

Unfortunately, this is the leading cause of death for women.

You will need to pay attention to managing your risks for cardiovascular disease.

That means ensuring you get enough exercise, maintain a healthy weight, and eating a heart-healthy diet.

As your estrogen decreases, the walls of your blood vessels may become less flexible.

This can cause your blood pressure to rise, which is a risk factor forstroke and heart disease.

Some occasionalheart palpitationsor irregular beats can be normal during the time around menopause.

Osteoporosis

Menopause leads to rapid loss of bone density, especially in the first few years.

This can lead to osteoporosis and increase your risk of breaking your hip, wrist, or spine.

If you feel this way, speak with your healthcare provider.

Confide in a close friend or family member when you suspect that you may be depressed.

These could be signs of precancerous changes or cancer in the uterine lining.

In women, the signs of a heart attack can be different from the classic signs.

They may be due to an unrelated condition that should be fully diagnosed and treated.

If you are having suicidal thoughts, dial988to contact the988 Suicide & Crisis Lifelineand connect with a trained counselor.

If you or a loved one are in immediate danger, call911.

Pamper yourself and look forward to your next stages of life.

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