Quick Checklist for Signs and Symptoms of Menopause

The symptoms of menopause vary a great deal but it seems like all the changes a woman experiences during the cessation of her fertile time get blamed on the "change".  Whether its a fit of anger over a spouse's lack of sensitivity or frustration over a child's lack of maturity, it seems to be easy to just put it down to menopause.  The fact is menopause means "the last menstrual period."  It doesn't mean eyesight changing, increased sensitivity, teeth falling out or memory slips! 

The proper name for the period of about five years around the last menstrual period is called "climacteric".  Great word if you ask me!  It means the time your body is acclimatizing to fluctuating and declining hormone levels.  And its during this time that you can experience the symptoms of menopause as your body adapts to the new levels of hormone. 

At the bottom of this page is a list at a glance of the signs and symptoms of menopause. In reponse to visitors requests I will be adding to each page, a Solutions section. Here you'll find ideas for natural solutions as well as allopathic possibilities.

We are now introducing a new page to our informative website: Ask Our Experts! We have a panel of experts ready to answer your questions, just click on the link, fill out the form and your anonymous answer will be posted so you and other women can learn more about this transitional time. Dr. John Yim, naturopathic physician is one of our women's health experts. He and our other panel members will be answering your questions on our blog page.

• Hot Flashes

• Night Sweats
• Sensitivity to Stress
• Fatigue
• Insomnia
• Concentration and Memory Problems
• Mood Swings
• Restless Legs Syndrome
• Headaches
• Vaginal Dryness and Itching
• Bladder Problems
• Breast Tenderness
• Bloating and Gas
• Skin Challenges
• Heavy Bleeding
• Confused Feelings
• Changes in Eyesight
• Varicose Veins
• Weight Gain
• Changes in Libido
• Food Cravings

Some of these symptoms could be signs of more serious conditions so if you are concerned please see your naturopathic doctor. They could also be a signal that your thyroid is acting up.