4 Subtle Signs of Early Menopause

Menopause is the time in your life when you stop ovulating. Marked by the end of your menstrual cycle, menopause involves hormone fluctuations, specifically with the female sex hormones estrogen and progesterone. These hormones are produced by your ovaries, and they slow production as you enter menopause. 

The phase leading up to menopause is called perimenopause, which is when many women begin to experience symptoms commonly associated with menopausal hormone fluctuations. 

As women’s health specialists, Kelly DiStefano, MD, and the team at Montclair Concierge Medicine in Verona, New Jersey, ease your transition into menopause. They help you know if you’re in perimenopause based on your symptoms. 

Most women reach menopause between ages 45 and 55, but some experience perimenopause earlier. Early menopause is defined as menopause that arrives anytime before 40. This can happen because of chromosomal conditions, hysterectomy or oophorectomy, infections, or behaviors like smoking. 

Whether you’re in the typical menopause age range or a little younger, it’s never the wrong time to familiarize yourself with common perimenopause symptoms. Here are four subtle signs of early menopause:

1. Changes in your period

A typical menstrual cycle lasts for 25-30 days. A healthy period is relatively predictable.

Irregular menstrual cycles are an indication of early menopause. You might notice spotting between periods or longer or shorter menstrual cycles. 

You should discuss any irregularity in your menstrual cycle with our team. Dr. DiStefano can evaluate you and consider possible causes, including early menopause. 

2. Hot flashes

Hot flashes are a well-known symptom of menopause. They involve sudden flushing and warmth across your face and body. They can last for several minutes and are highly uncomfortable. 

If you experience hot flashes before 40, talk to Dr. DiStefano to explore possible causes, including early menopause. Hot flashes can be subtle. Or, they can be  intense enough to keep you awake at night. 

Or, they can be intense enough to keep you awake at night. 

When linked to menopause, hot flashes happen because decreased estrogen makes your body more sensitive to changes in temperature.  

3. Vaginal dryness

Vaginal dryness is a common symptom of early menopause. 

As your hormone production declines, the walls of your vagina become thinner and easily irritated. This is the source of vaginal dryness associated with menopause. To alleviate this symptom, Dr. DiStefano might recommend vaginal lubricants or low-dose vaginal estrogen. 

4. Weight fluctuations

If you find yourself gaining or losing significant weight without a clear explanation, it’s time to check your hormones. Early menopause can cause unexplained weight gain or weight loss. 

Reduced estrogen and progesterone impact metabolism — the rate at which your body converts calories from food into energy. When menopausal weight gain occurs, it typically accumulates in the abdominal area. 

Dr. DiStefano can help determine if your weight fluctuations are menopause-related.

Looking for menopause care?

If you experience these symptoms or others commonly associated with early menopause, discuss them with our team. Call Montclair Concierge Medicine to schedule an in-person or telehealth visit today.