What are the 34 symptoms of menopause, and am I experiencing them?
I remember sitting in my car one morning, gripping the steering wheel, trying not to cry. I’d forgotten my keys — again. My heart was racing, my skin was damp with hot flushes, and I’d hardly slept the night before. I didn’t feel like “me” anymore.
At first, I thought it was stress, maybe even anxiety. But as the weeks went on, new symptoms appeared — night sweats, mood swings, dry skin, and even pain during intimacy . My doctor smiled gently and said,
“You’re not falling apart, love — you’re going through menopause.”
That moment changed everything. Because no one had ever told me what menopause really felt like — or that there were 34 symptoms linked to it.
If you’ve ever wondered, “Am I going through menopause?” this guide will help you understand the signs, your body, and how to reclaim your peace of mind.
Menopause is the natural stage in a woman’s life when her menstrual cycles stop, signalling the end of her reproductive years. It usually happens between the ages of 45 and 55, but perimenopause — the transition period — can start years earlier.
During this time, your oestrogen levels begin to fluctuate and eventually decline, affecting nearly every part of your body, from your brain to your skin, mood, and bones.
Here’s the full list of the 34 menopause symptoms that many women experience — and trust me, you’re not imagining them.
1. Hot Flushes
Sudden feelings of heat, often in your face, neck, or chest.
2. Night Sweats
Waking up drenched, even on a cool night.
3. Irregular Periods
Cycles become shorter, longer, heavier, or lighter.
4. Mood Swings
Crying one minute, laughing the next.
5. Fatigue
Constant exhaustion that no nap can fix.
6. Decreased Libido
Lower sex drive and less interest in intimacy.
7. Vaginal Dryness
Discomfort or pain during sex due to low oestrogen.
8. Brain Fog
Forgetfulness, confusion, or losing your train of thought.
9. Anxiety
Overthinking, nervousness, or panic attacks.
10. Depression
Low mood, hopelessness, or loss of motivation.
11. Sleep Problems (Insomnia)
Struggling to fall or stay asleep.
12. Weight Gain
Particularly around the belly and thighs.
13. Bloating
Feeling swollen or uncomfortable after meals.
14. Thinning Hair
Hair shedding or loss, especially at the crown.
15. Dry Skin
Skin becomes dull, flaky, or itchy.
16. Joint Pain
Aching knees, hips, or wrists for no clear reason.
17. Muscle Aches
Persistent stiffness or soreness.
18. Headaches
New or more frequent headaches and migraines.
19. Dizziness
Sudden light-headedness or feeling off balance.
20. Breast Tenderness
Soreness or swelling that comes and goes.
21. Changes in Body Odour
Sweat smells stronger or different.
22. Tingling Extremities
Pins and needles in your hands, feet, or limbs.
23. Itchy Skin
Unexplained itching, even without a rash.
24. Electric Shock Sensations
A strange “zap” feeling in your chest or head.
25. Burning Mouth
Tingling or burning sensation in your tongue or lips.
26. Digestive Problems
Indigestion, gas, or constipation.
27. Allergies
Developing new sensitivities to foods or products.
28. Brittle Nails
Nails splitting, peeling, or breaking easily.
29. Memory Loss
Forgetting names, appointments, or why you entered a room.
30. Difficulty Concentrating
Trouble focusing or finishing tasks.
31. Hair Growth on Face or Chin
Due to hormonal imbalance (low oestrogen, higher testosterone).
32. Bladder Problems
Increased urgency, leakage, or discomfort.
33. Irregular Heartbeat
Feeling like your heart skips a beat or flutters.
34. Osteoporosis Risk
Weakened bones due to low oestrogen.
When I finally connected the dots, it was almost a relief. All those years of mood swings, forgetfulness, and fatigue weren’t just “getting older” — they were my body’s way of adjusting to a new hormonal rhythm.
I began journaling every symptom, every feeling. That’s when I noticed a pattern: some days were worse after caffeine or lack of sleep, while others improved when I ate better or took time for self-care.
My doctor called it perimenopause, the period before menopause when oestrogen levels fluctuate the most. She reassured me that I wasn’t alone — millions of women go through the same storm silently.
Here’s what truly helped me feel human again:
1. Balanced Diet
I began focusing on whole foods, leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and omega-3-rich fish. Foods like soy, flaxseeds, and lentils helped balance my oestrogen levels naturally.
2. Hydration
Drinking more water reduced my bloating, headaches, and even eased hot flushes.
3. Exercise
Daily walks and light yoga improved my mood, sleep, and joint pain.
4. Sleep Hygiene
No screens an hour before bed, herbal teas, and relaxation breathing — all helped me battle insomnia.
5. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)
After speaking with my doctor, I started HRT, which eased my worst symptoms. It’s not for everyone, but it can be life-changing for many.
6. Supplements
Natural vitamins and herbs like black cohosh, evening primrose oil, vitamin D, and magnesium supported my energy and hormonal balance.
Menopause isn’t the end of femininity — it’s a new chapter. Yes, it’s uncomfortable, unpredictable, and even scary, but it’s also a time to reconnect with yourself.
I started writing down things I was grateful for — my strength, my experiences, my body’s resilience. Slowly, the fog lifted.
I realised I wasn’t broken — I was becoming.
If your menopause symptoms start to affect your daily life — your work, relationships, or mental health — it’s time to get professional advice.
Your doctor can help with:
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Blood tests to check hormone levels
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Options like HRT, natural supplements, or lifestyle changes
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Ruling out other conditions that mimic menopause symptoms (like thyroid issues)
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Menopause is not something to hide or feel ashamed about. It’s a natural, powerful transition — one that deserves understanding, compassion, and support.
If you’re sitting there wondering, “Am I experiencing menopause?”, trust your intuition. Listen to your body. And remember: you’re not alone.
Every hot flush, every tear, every sleepless night — they’re all part of your body’s incredible journey toward a new balance.
You are strong. You are still beautiful. And you will shine again.
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