Menopause: What’s Normal, What’s Not, and When to Speak Up
By HealthSprings Direct

Menopause is a natural part of aging, but that doesn’t mean it always feels straightforward. For many women, this transition brings symptoms that affect everything from mood and sleep to relationships and work. Understanding what’s going on in your body — and knowing when to ask for help — can make a big difference.

What Is Menopause?

Menopause marks the end of your menstrual cycles and is officially diagnosed after 12 months without a period. It usually happens between ages 45 and 55. But for most women, the process begins years earlier with perimenopause — a gradual hormonal shift that can start as early as your late 30s or early 40s.

Common Symptoms

Not every woman experiences menopause the same way, but some of the most common symptoms include:

• Irregular or changing periods

• Hot flashes and night sweats

• Mood swings or irritability

• Difficulty concentrating or "brain fog"

• Trouble sleeping

• Vaginal dryness or discomfort

• Lower libido

• Weight changes, especially around the midsection
  
  

For some, these changes are mild and manageable. For others, they can be disruptive and exhausting.

What’s Normal and What’s Not?

It’s normal to notice changes in your cycle, mood, or sleep. But some symptoms shouldn’t be ignored:

Talk to your provider if you notice:

• Bleeding after menopause

• Very heavy or prolonged periods

• Sudden or severe mood changes

• Painful intercourse that doesn't improve

• Memory loss that feels unusual

• Symptoms that affect your day-to-day quality of life

These may be part of the transition, but they could also signal something more — and either way, you deserve care and support.

You’re Not Alone

Menopause isn’t just about hot flashes. It’s about navigating a whole-body transition with the right information and support. Whether you’re at the start of perimenopause or well into your postmenopausal years, it helps to know what to expect — and that you're not alone.

If you have questions or feel like something's off, don’t hesitate to reach out. You're not overreacting. You're advocating for your health.