Menopause - Menopause Message Board

Bernice · 05-22-2003, 10:16 AM

When do women start going through menopause? I'm 39 years old. What are the symptoms of menopause? How long does menopause last?

Thank You,

Bernice

MrsKramden · 05-22-2003, 12:04 PM

HELLO, BERNICE !

The questions you've asked do not have a 1 + 1 = 2 answer, unfortunately. Since you are wondering, it must mean that you may have been noticing changes in yourself lately , is that right ?

I for one began peri-menopause at 38 and just recently went into menopause at age 43 (in three months I will be 44). That's condsidered early but not unusual.

What symptoms are you getting ? Every woman experiences it differently.There are about 100 symptoms, though , but do not worry, you don't get all 100.

By getting a FSH test done, your doctor can give you an idea .(Get complete blood work done, too).They can let you know if you've entered peri-menopause, the period of time which leads you up to menopause.

Be sure to visit this board often as it is very helpful and filled with many supportive posters from various locations.

Karla · 05-22-2003, 12:42 PM

Hot flashes and irregular menstral cycle are the biggest signs I think. Their are other minor ones.

Bernice · 05-22-2003, 01:09 PM

The only symptom I have (which I'm not sure is a sumptom) is the last 2 months, the first 2-3 days my periods are heavier and last about 5 days. Sometimes this would happen but not 2 months in a row. Maybe one month every 4-5 months. Usually the first 2 days would be somewhat heavy but my periods would last 5-7 days. On the first 2 days my periods are heavier, I get more, painful cramps. On days when my periods aren't as heavy, the cramps aren't as bad. Is this a sign of menopause?

Thank You,

Bernice

Bernice · 05-22-2003, 01:14 PM

I forgot to mention. On the first 2-3 days when my period starts, I feel full and bloated. I'm not hungrey at all. I'll eat something light for dinner (because I'm not hungrey until then) and that's it. I feel full all day. Is this a sign of menopause?

Thank You,

Bernice