The average starting age for most woman tends to be at around 52 years old but it can start earlier. The symptoms can also last between 2-5 years and in some rare cases, medical complications can even affect woman in their 20s, and sometimes even earlier.
Along with many of the physical symptoms such as night sweats, hot flushes, vaginal dryness and insomnia, the menopause can also psychologically affect many women.
During the menopause it's not uncommon for woman to also suffer from depression, mood swings and anxiety. Oestrogen is what helps to raise the dopamine and serotonin chemicals in the brain, which is responsible for your mood regulation. A lack of oestrogen, which occurs during the menopause, can lead to mood swings.
Another important function of oestrogen is to provide lubrication for the mucous membranes in the mouth. The decreased levels can often leave your mouth dry, which allows bacteria to grow, which can then lead to gum disease and tooth decay causing your gums to bleed.
Furthermore, reduced levels of oestrogen can even contribute to an irregular heartbeat due an over-stimulation of the circulatory and nervous system.
It is not uncommon to gain weight during the menopause as your body retains fat cells in the abdomen to help produce more oestrogen from the fatty deposits. Your metabolism also slows down due the drop in testosterone levels.
If you think you are beginning the menopause, then speak with your doctor who can help you to deal with such symptoms. For more information about treating menopause-related symptoms, click here.