Many of these changes are brought on by decreasing hormone levels. The first signs of approaching menopause are changes in menstrual cycles. Some women might menstruate more frequently, others less. Timing between each cycle can become unpredictable. Menopause is sometimes accompanied by vaginal changes such as a decrease in moisture and elasticity resulting in discomfort during sexual intercourse.
Hot flashes are the most common symptom of menopause.
These are a sudden sensation of heat that spreads over all or part of the upper body. As your body tries to compensate for its physical changes, there can be emotional changes too. Again, these symptoms vary in intensity from woman to woman. Some women experience nervousness, irritability, fatigue or mild depression. Hot flashes can cause trouble sleeping which, in turn, can result in memory loss and mood swings.