Symptoms of menopause

For most women, the period is astonishingly reliable over many years. Month after month, bleeding starts around the same time, lasts three to five days, and occurs every 26 to 32 days—on average about 28 days. This familiar pattern is so ingrained that any change immediately catches your attention.

“My skin suddenly felt dried out – no matter how much cream I used.” Many women describe their first skin changes during menopause in similar words. What used to feel soft, elastic, and easy to care for now feels dry, thinner, or more sensitive. Some notice small cracks, itching, or a feeling of tightness – often without immediately understanding the cause. What many don’t know: the skin is one of the organs that reacts particularly strongly to hormonal changes. Estrogen, in particular, plays a central role in the health and structure of the skin. As estrogen levels drop with the onset of menopause, a new phase also begins for the skin. If your skin changes, it’s not a sign of neglect – it’s the expression of a natural process. That’s why it’s all the more important to understand what’s happening in your body, the role hormones play, and how you can actively support your skin.

Many women notice changes in their digestion at the onset of menopause: a persistent feeling of fullness, bloating, or irregular bowel movements. These symptoms often appear during perimenopause – the transition phase to menopause – or worsen during this time. This can be especially frustrating when lifestyle and eating habits haven't changed. Although digestive problems aren't the first things associated with menopause, hormonal fluctuations can significantly influence the function of your digestive system. Bloating, constipation, or a sluggish bowel aren't just coincidental; they can be the result of fundamental changes in your hormone balance – and how your body responds to them.

Many women will experience changes in body shape and composition at menopause. These changes can be among the most frustrating symptoms experienced at that time. Although actual weight gain may be modest for many women, it can add significantly to the burden for those women.

The female cycle is a natural process that prepares a woman's body for pregnancy monthly. This cycle is regulated by a finely tuned interplay of hormones, each playing a distinct role in different phases. The main hormones involved are estrogen and progesterone, which, along with other hormones, ensure the smooth functioning of the cycle. Understanding these hormones and their functions can help you better grasp what’s happening in your body.

Many women experience changes during menopause that they hadn’t known before. One of the most common, yet lesser-known symptoms is "brain fog," which affects about 60% of women in this phase of life. But what exactly is behind it, and what can you do about it?

Menopause is a phase of transition that begins for most women between the ages of 45 and 55. Many women experience a range of symptoms during this time that can greatly impact daily life. However you're feeling – you’re not alone, and there are ways to navigate these changes.

Menopause affects millions of women worldwide, with profound impacts on their work lives. In Germany, there is growing recognition that this life stage brings not only health but also economic challenges. Symptoms such as hot flushes, sleep disturbances, and concentration difficulties can impair productivity and lead to increased absenteeism.

Hot flushes are the most common symptom of menopause, affecting about 80% of women. They occur especially in late perimenopause and postmenopause. Hot flushes appear suddenly and unexpectedly, often disrupting daily life. The intensity of the symptoms varies greatly from one woman to another; for some, they are merely unpleasant, while others experience severe discomfort.

Menopause is not a sudden change but a gradual process that often spans over ten years. During this time, the ovaries progressively reduce the production of estrogen and progesterone. These hormones impact not only fertility but also various bodily functions, including cardiovascular health, bone density, and overall well-being. The effects are both physical and emotional, influencing different areas of life—from partnerships and sexual health to social interactions and work activities.

Many women experience a hormonal rollercoaster during menopause – with effects that go far beyond hot flushes or mood swings. What is often overlooked: the thyroid also plays a central role during this phase of life. It regulates metabolism, affects energy, mood, weight, and even bone health – all areas that tend to shift during menopause. No wonder that the symptoms of thyroid issues and menopause are so similar – and often hard to distinguish from one another.

Menopause is a natural transition, but its impact on heart health is often underestimated. The declining estrogen levels that accompany menopause can significantly affect the cardiovascular system, increasing the risk of heart disease. While this might sound alarming, understanding the risks and taking proactive steps can empower women to protect their hearts and maintain their health and vitality during this phase of life.