Common Menopause Symptoms

Menopause and perimenopause bring a range of physical and emotional changes that can significantly impact quality of life. Unfortunately, many women find that their symptoms are dismissed or overlooked by healthcare providers who may not be up to date on the latest research in hormone health. Understanding these changes and knowing when to seek help is essential—not only for symptom relief but also for long-term health, including bone density, heart health, and cognitive function.

In this article, we’ll explore the common symptoms of perimenopause and menopause, discuss why they occur, and explain effective strategies for managing them, including hormone therapy and comprehensive functional medicine approaches.

What Is Menopause vs. Perimenopause?

Many people are familiar with the term menopause, but perimenopause is often overlooked. Menopause is officially diagnosed when a woman has gone 12 consecutive months without a period, typically occurring around age 50. Perimenopause, meaning “around menopause,” can start much earlier—often in the early to mid-40s, though some women experience symptoms in their 30s. This transitional phase can last for years, as hormone levels fluctuate and begin to decline.

Common Symptoms of Perimenopause and Menopause

Many women recognize hot flashes as a hallmark of menopause, but symptoms can vary widely. Here are some of the most frequent—and often unexpected—signs of perimenopause and menopause:

1. Hot Flashes and Temperature Dysregulation

Sudden waves of heat, often accompanied by sweating and flushing, are among the most well-known menopause symptoms. However, some women experience milder temperature dysregulation rather than classic hot flashes.

2. Irregular or Heavy Periods

One of the first signs of perimenopause is a change in menstrual cycles. Periods may become irregular, heavier, or lighter, and clotting may increase. These fluctuations can be confusing, especially for women who aren’t expecting perimenopause to begin in their early 40s.

3. Brain Fog and Memory Issues

Many women notice difficulty concentrating, forgetfulness, or mental fatigue during perimenopause. These cognitive changes can be frustrating but are often tied to shifting hormone levels.

4. Mood Changes and Irritability

Fluctuating estrogen and progesterone levels can cause mood swings, anxiety, and even depressive symptoms. Many women find themselves feeling more irritable or emotionally sensitive during this time.

5. Sleep Disturbances

Night sweats and difficulty falling or staying asleep are common complaints during perimenopause. Poor sleep can exacerbate other symptoms, such as mood changes and brain fog.

6. Weight Gain and Metabolism Changes

Many women notice weight gain around the midsection, even without changes in diet or exercise. Shifting hormone levels affect metabolism, making it harder to maintain previous weight levels.

7. Vaginal Dryness and Low Libido

Declining estrogen can lead to vaginal dryness, discomfort during intercourse, and a reduced sex drive. These changes can impact relationships and confidence but are highly treatable.

8. Muscle and Joint Pain

Aches and stiffness in the muscles and joints are often overlooked as a symptom of hormone decline. Many women find relief with menopause therapy services that address underlying hormonal imbalances.

9. Increased Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) and Bladder Changes

A drop in estrogen can cause changes in bladder function, leading to more frequent UTIs, increased urgency, or even mild incontinence.

10. Heart Palpitations

Some women experience heart palpitations or an irregular heartbeat during perimenopause, often due to fluctuating hormone levels. While usually harmless, these symptoms should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

How to Manage Perimenopause and Menopause Symptoms

Comprehensive Hormone Testing

Before beginning treatment, it’s essential to understand which hormones are imbalanced. At Nourish House Calls, we use the DUTCH test, a comprehensive analysis that assesses estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, cortisol, and other key markers.

Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT)

For many women, hormone therapy services offer the most effective symptom relief. Research supports the use of bioidentical hormones to restore balance and reduce the long-term health risks associated with menopause, such as osteoporosis and cognitive decline.

Lifestyle and Nutritional Support

A holistic approach to menopause management includes:

• A balanced diet rich in omega-3s, antioxidants, and phytoestrogens
• Regular exercise to support metabolism, bone density, and mood
• Stress reduction techniques like meditation and deep breathing

Nutritional and Gut Health Testing

In addition to hormone testing, we often assess nutritional deficiencies and gut health, as these factors can contribute to menopause symptoms. Functional testing can reveal:

• Vitamin and mineral deficiencies
• Inflammatory markers
• Gut microbiome imbalances

Avoiding Ineffective Treatments

While herbal remedies are popular, research does not support their effectiveness in preventing long-term health risks like dementia, osteoporosis, or cardiovascular disease. Women experiencing moderate to severe symptoms typically find better relief through personalized perimenopause therapy services that include medical-grade interventions.

Get Personalized Menopause Care

Every woman’s experience with menopause is unique, and a one-size-fits-all approach doesn’t work. At Nourish House Calls, we develop individualized treatment plans that consider your symptoms, lifestyle, and health goals.

If you’ve been told that your symptoms are “just part of aging” or haven’t received the support you need, we’re here to help. Schedule a free 15-minute discovery call to learn more about your options.

Book your free discovery call now.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Menopause doesn’t have to be a struggle. If you’re looking for expert, personalized support, book your free discovery call today.