Menopause. It’s a word that, at times, feels shrouded in mystery and misinformation. Yet, it’s a journey every woman will go through sooner or later. But how do you even know when it’s beginning? Well, the answer is a bit complicated, as early signs of menopause can vary widely. It’s not exactly the same for everyone. So, let’s take a closer look at what those early signs might be and when they tend to show up.
When Does Menopause Begin?
First things first. Menopause, strictly speaking, officially begins when you’ve not had a menstrual period for 12 consecutive months. Typically, this happens around the age of 45-55, but—what many women don’t realise—is that the “lead-up” to menopause can start much sooner than that.
This phase, known as perimenopause, can begin as early as your late 30s, although for most women it starts in their 40s. During perimenopause, your hormone levels—oestrogen and progesterone—start to fluctuate, and this can lead to some noticeable changes in your body. This isn’t necessarily the end of your menstrual cycles, but it is the beginning of a new chapter.
Common Early Signs of Menopause
So what are these early signs? Well, here are some of the most common symptoms that women experience when entering perimenopause:
- Irregular Periods
One of the very first signs of perimenopause is changes in your menstrual cycle. It may become less predictable—coming early or late—and the flow might be lighter or heavier. Sometimes, you might skip a month altogether. If your cycle suddenly changes, and you’re around 40, it might be worth considering menopause as a possible reason. - Hot Flushes
Another tell-tale sign is those infamous hot flushes. A sudden sensation of heat that starts in the chest and travels up to your face, causing you to feel flushed and maybe even break out into a sweat. It can be uncomfortable and might come at inconvenient times. Some women experience them at night, leading to what we call night sweats. - Mood Changes
Do you find yourself getting teary over little things, or losing your patience more quickly than usual? Mood swings are common early indicators of hormonal shifts. The decline in oestrogen affects serotonin levels—the hormone that helps regulate mood—causing anxiety, irritability or even mild depression. - Sleep Disturbances
Trouble falling asleep or waking up in the middle of the night is another frequent complaint among women entering menopause. It’s not just the night sweats that disturb sleep; the changes in hormone levels can also directly impact your ability to rest well. - Changes in Libido
A drop in libido or sexual desire can also be one of the early symptoms. For many women, fluctuating hormone levels can lead to decreased interest in sex. This, combined with physical symptoms like vaginal dryness—which can make intercourse uncomfortable—can be challenging for both partners to navigate. - Other Physical Changes
You might notice your skin feels drier, or your hair becomes thinner. Some women even find that they gain a bit of weight, particularly around the abdomen. Again, hormones are often the culprits here.
When Should You Speak to a Doctor?
Many of these symptoms are normal, but they can still be difficult to manage. If you find that your symptoms are interfering with your daily life, it might be time to speak with your GP. They can help with options for managing symptoms and make sure there’s nothing else contributing to these changes—because let’s face it, it’s better to have peace of mind.
There are also treatments like hormone replacement therapy (HRT) that can make the transition smoother, as well as lifestyle changes that can help—like regular exercise, a balanced diet, and good sleep habits. A conversation with a medical professional is a good first step to making this phase of your life more comfortable.
It’s All Normal
The important thing to remember here is that these symptoms, while often unpleasant, are perfectly normal. Every woman’s journey through menopause is unique; for some, the signs are mild, while for others they can feel overwhelming. Understanding what’s happening can make it a lot easier to cope.
If you’re starting to notice these changes in yourself, it’s natural to wonder “Is this it?”. Rest assured, early signs of menopause are a normal part of getting older—yes, it can feel unfair at times, but it’s something you don’t have to go through alone. There’s support out there, from friends, family, and health professionals, to help you navigate this journey.
So, when does menopause begin? The answer is—it depends. It can start earlier than you might think, but recognising the signs, however subtle, is key to understanding where you are in this journey. The first whispers of menopause might arrive in your 30s or 40s, with symptoms that can be frustrating, uncomfortable or even surprising. But knowing what to expect helps make it all feel less daunting.
It’s a time of transition, and every transition, though challenging, can also be a moment of growth. Whether it’s hot flushes or mood swings, these changes are simply part of the process, a natural step in a woman’s life cycle. With the right support, this can also be a time to refocus on yourself and embrace the changes ahead.