The nickname for Menopause is “The Change” and for good reason.

The shift in our hormones affects all the symptoms in our body. It can feel like everything is changing and you have no control over it.

It is important to understand that not every woman will experience the transition in the same way.

Here’s a quick reference list of the common changes of menopause.

If you are experiencing these symptoms and want to speak with someone, please reach out to your doctor.

If you are looking to connect with someone before you go to your doctor and you would like a menopause tracking sheet, schedule a call with Stephanie and she will be happy to chat.

Reproductive System

• Lower estrogen and progesterone

• Periods become less frequent and then stop

• Breast changes (e.g., change in shape, more tenderness, less elasticity, higher cancer risk

• Vaginal changes (e.g., dryness and thinning skin, lower elasticity, more pain)

• Urogenital changes (e.g., pain when urinating, urinary tract changes)

Central and Peripheral Nervous System

• Cognitive changes (e.g., learning, memory, focus, attention)

• Sleep changes (e.g., insomnia, night sweats, changes to circadian rhythm)

• Mood changes (e.g., more anxiety, irritability, depression)

• Migraines and headaches

• Vasomotor symptoms (e.g., hot flushes)

Cardiovascular System

• Stiffer and less elastic blood vessels

• Higher blood pressure

• Higher cardiovascular disease risk

Musculoskeletal System

• Loss of muscle mass

• Loss of bone density

• Slower healing of connective tissues; stiffer connective tissues

• More aches and pains in muscles and joints

Metabolism

• Changes in glucose metabolism and insulin sensitivity

• Changes in metabolic health

Body Composition

• Increased visceral and abdominal adiposity

• Changes in fat distribution

• Possible weight gain

Digestive System

• Changes in digestion and gastric function (e.g., changes in gastric motility, changes in bowel habits, indigestion, constipation, heartburn)

Inflammation and Immunity

• Higher inflammation and elevated immune response to pro-inflammatory cytokines

• Decreased activity of some immune cell types (e.g., natural killer cells)

Skin and Mucous Membranes

• Thinner, drier, and less elastic tissues

• Odd or unusual skin sensations (e.g., formication)