Menopause occurs when levels of estrogen and other hormones drop as a natural part of a woman's aging. A woman's last menstrual period commonly occurs between age 45 and 55, according to Health Square. The process usually is gradual and is accompanied by various physical symptoms. Hot flashes and night sweats, along with irregular menstrual cycles, are typical signs of approaching menopause. Emotional problems can occur as well, and sometimes are related to the physical symptoms.
Hot Flashes and Emotions
Some menopausal women experience severe hot flashes that cause them to sweat profusely, along with feeling lightheaded and nauseated. Hot flashes occur unexpectedly and without warning, and a woman may experience them several times a day. This can lead to embarrassment when hot flashes occur during work or social situations. The woman may feel anxious about socializing and may start avoiding public events.
Insomnia and Emotions
Insomnia is common during menopause. Night sweats are one cause. A decrease in progesterone, a hormone that helps with sleep, is another problem. Ongoing insomnia can result in fatigue, frustration, bad moods, difficulty concentrating and anxiety. A woman experiencing chronic insomnia may feel mentally and physically exhausted, Health Square notes.
Mood Swings
Mood swings also can be a new or more-frequent development during menopause. Women who have experienced mood swings during premenstrual syndrome or who have had postpartum depression may be more likely to have mood swings during menopause, as the U.S. National Women's Health Information Center explains. These women are more sensitive to hormonal changes.
Depression
Some menopausal women experience depression. This can cause or worsen insomnia, leading to further emotional difficulties. Long-term depression is not a typical symptom of menopause, according to Health Square, and depression actually is less common in this age group than in other women. Depression during menopause may be related to other changes that occur during middle age, such as children leaving home and worries about aging. Anyone experiencing significant depression during menopause should talk to her physician.
Sexual Problems
Vaginal lubrication in response to sexual excitement typically decreases with age. Additionally, decreases in estrogen levels cause the vaginal lining to become thinner and less elastic. This can result in pain and burning sensations during sex, and even bleeding. Emotional reactions to these problems may lead to embarrassment, lack of desire and avoidance of sex.
Other Emotional Problems
Declining estrogen levels can cause other emotional changes. As listed by the Cleveland Clinic, some menopausal women experience anxiety, difficulty concentrating, lack of motivation and feelings of tension. Irritability and unexplained feelings of sadness are the most common emotional symptoms.
