Menopause can be defined as absence of menstrual periods for about one year. The average age a woman experiences menopause in the United States is 51. Menopause is caused by the natural decline of reproductive hormones in the body. Having a surgical total hysterectomy whereby the uterus and ovaries are removed also causes menopause. Signs and symptoms of menopause appear well before its onset. Each woman experiences menopause differently. The early years leading up to menopause are defined as perimenopause. The total time period of menopause, including all stages, lasts from several months to several years.
Hot Flashes
Hot flashes come on suddenly and last approximately one to five minutes. A woman's body temperature will rise, her face becomes flushed and excessive sweating occurs. Hot flashes happen at any time and in any setting. Some woman may describe hot flashes as sudden increased warmth, while others describe it as intense heat like being on fire, according to Harvard Medical School.
Irregular Periods
During perimenopause, ovaries gradually decline production of estrogen and other related hormones such as progesterone and androgen. Production of the hormones is sporadic causing periods to be irregular or even skipped. Periods may be "anovulatory" meaning the uterus builds up enough lining to shed during menstruation, but no egg is being produced by the body.
Vaginal Dryness
Vaginal dryness occurs in 80 percent of women entering menopause. Moisture is necessary for sexual intercourse and may leave some women feeling inadequate or uncomfortable. Decreased lubrication makes the vaginal walls thinner and more sensitive. Natural vaginal moisture helps keep bacteria and other organisms from entering the vagina. During and after menopause a woman may experience increased vaginal infections such as yeast infections or urinary tract infections. As estrogen levels decline, the vagina will begin to sag and its appearance will change due to tissue and fat loss. Symptoms of vaginal dryness include itching and painful intercourse.
FSH Hormone and Estradiol Levels
There are two laboratory tests that help determine if a woman is entering into menopause. Follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) is measured by taking a blood sample. FSH rises as the body slows production of estrogen. High levels of FSH are a signal the body is entering menopause. Cedars-Sinai suggests measuring FSH levels on the third day of a woman's menstrual cycle for the most accurate readings. Estradiol levels are also measured by collecting a blood specimen. Estradiol production is a form of estrogen and begins to drop when ovaries start to fail. Testing for thyroid function is often recommended as the symptoms of thyroid disease and menopause are often the same.
