Table of contents:
- 1. Changes in the menstrual cycle
- 2. Hot flashes
- 3. Vaginal dryness and pain during intercourse
- 4. Insomnia or difficulty sleeping
- 5. Urinary tract problems
- 6. Decreased sexual desire
- 7.Mood disorders (mood)
- 8. Changes in skin and hair
Menopause is something that cannot be avoided by all women. Some women can go through menopause without experiencing unpleasant symptoms, but others have to experience symptoms that are quite uncomfortable. Symptoms of menopause experienced by women before menopause are a result of reduced female sex hormones, namely estrogen and progesterone. So, what symptoms may a woman experience before menopause?
1. Changes in the menstrual cycle
You may experience changes in your menstrual cycle. The amount of blood that comes out during menstruation may also be more, less, or maybe just spots or spotting . The duration of your periods may also be shorter.
If you don't have your period at the right time, make sure you rule out the possibility of getting pregnant. If you are not pregnant, not having your period on schedule may signal the start of your menopause. If you experience spotting after 12 consecutive months without menstruating, you may need to consult your doctor to rule out a more serious condition such as cancer.
2. Hot flashes
Hot flashes is a condition in which you experience a sensation of heat, either in the upper part of your body or even completely. Your face and neck may turn red and you may become sweaty. Intensity hot flash can vary from mild to strong, even to disturbing sleep. This condition usually lasts between 30 seconds to 10 minutes. Most women experience this condition for one to two years after their last period. Hot flash it may continue after menopause, but over time, this condition will become less common. Consult your doctor if your symptoms are very disruptive to activities.
3. Vaginal dryness and pain during intercourse
The reduced production of estrogen and progesterone can affect the moisture in the thin film lining the vaginal walls. Symptoms you experience can include itching or burning sensation in the mouth of the vagina. Dryness in the vaginal area can cause pain during intercourse. To fix this, you can try water-based lubricants, or vaginal moisturizers. If you still feel discomfort, talk to your doctor.
4. Insomnia or difficulty sleeping
During menopause you can have problems sleeping or maintaining your sleep. You may wake up earlier than usual and have trouble getting back to sleep. To get adequate rest, try various relaxation and breathing techniques. You can also exercise during the day so that you are tired enough to sleep at night. Avoid opening your cellphone or computer before bed as the blue light from the gadget can make it difficult for you to sleep. Taking a bath, reading, or listening to a slow song may help you relax. Try to go to bed at the same time every night and avoid foods or drinks that can affect sleep, such as chocolate, caffeine, or alcohol.
5. Urinary tract problems
Difficulty holding back the urge to urinate is a natural thing experienced by women before menopause. You may experience the urge to urinate even though your bladder isn't full. You may also experience pain when urinating. This is because during menopause, the tissues in your vagina and urinary tract lose elasticity. In addition, the muscles surrounding your pelvis also weaken. To deal with this, you can drink water more often, avoid alcoholic drinks, and do Kegel exercises to strengthen your pelvic muscles.
The drop in estrogen levels in the body can also make you more susceptible to infection. Some women may develop urinary tract infections more frequently at this time. If you experience frequent urge to urinate, or experience a burning sensation when urinating, you may need to consult a doctor.
6. Decreased sexual desire
The drop in estrogen levels can slow down the orgasmic reaction, slow the clitoral reaction, and cause vaginal dryness. These conditions can cause a decrease in sexual desire. You can consult your doctor if your decreased arousal is caused by other problems such as pain during intercourse.
7.Mood disorders (mood)
Changes in hormone production can affect the mood of women who are facing menopause. Some women experience disorders such as irritability, depression, and mood swings. It is important for you to know that hormonal changes can affect your brain, and your condition is very natural to experience.
8. Changes in skin and hair
As you age, decreasing fat tissue can make your skin drier and thinner. Less estrogen can also make your hair more brittle and dry. Avoid using hair care products with chemicals that are too strong, as this can worsen hair damage.
