A small percentage cease menstruation suddenly. Absence of menstruation is not a certain indication that menopause has occured, although this is the most common diagnosis if menstrual periods have been absent for at least one year. A conclusive medical test which measures the blood level of the follicle stimulating hormone made in the pituitary gland can give a more concrete diagnosis. However, this test can be affected by individual conditions within the woman's reproductive system. A hot flash is a sensation of heat that often spreads from the chest and waist area to the arms, face and neck.
Degree can vary from a light heat sensation to an extremely hot and uncomfortable feeling.
The skin often reddens and this is followed by heaving sweating. This thinning and loss of elasticity in the vaginal area is caused by reduced amounts of estrogen, which helps to keep the skin in this area thick and lubricated. This symptom is often accompanied by painful sexual intercourse. These changes can vary widely from slight changes in disposition to intense anxiety, sleep difficulty, melancholia and irritability. There have been women who have attempted suicide as a result of the hormonal imbalances caused by menopause.