You're not really through menopause until you haven't had a period for 6 to 12 months. Some women just stop having periods. This is one of the first signs of menopause. You may skip periods or they may occur closer together. Your flow may be lighter or heavier than usual.
Hot flashes are the most common symptom of menopause.
Hot flashes may start before you notice any change in your periods. When you have a hot flash, you'll feel warm from your chest to your head, often in wave-like sensations. Your skin may turn red and you may sweat a lot. Along with the hot flash you may feel sick to your stomach and dizzy. You may have a headache and feel like your heart is beating very fast and hard.