3. Mood Swings You Can’t Explain
One moment you’re laughing, and the next, you feel emotional for no clear reason. These mood shifts can feel overwhelming, but they’re a normal part of the menopause transition.
As hormone levels fluctuate, they affect the neurotransmitters in your brain that regulate mood and emotions. Add in fatigue, stress, and sleep loss, and you’ve got a perfect recipe for irritability or sadness.
You’re not overreacting — your body is simply adjusting. Try gentle exercise, deep breathing, or journaling to help stabilize your emotions.
4. Irregular or Missing Periods
One of the earliest signs of menopause is changes in your menstrual cycle. You might notice that your periods come earlier or later, become heavier or lighter, or even skip months entirely.
This stage, called perimenopause, can last several years as your hormone production gradually decreases. It’s your body’s natural way of transitioning out of the reproductive phase.
If your periods become unusually heavy or painful, it’s a good idea to check in with your doctor to make sure nothing else is going on.
5. Trouble Falling or Staying Asleep
If you’re tossing and turning at night or waking up at 3 a.m. for no reason, you’re not alone. Hormonal changes during menopause can interfere with your sleep cycle, making it harder to fall asleep or stay asleep.
