As women, our bodies undergo many changes throughout life. Puberty brings growth spurts, acne, and new curves. Pregnancy causes morning sickness, food cravings, swollen feet, and more. Menopause, which marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years, is no exception.

During perimenopause and menopause, declining estrogen levels can throw your body out of whack, causing an array of unfamiliar and often uncomfortable symptoms.

These symptoms fall into four main categories. Understanding each can help identify what’s happening in your body and find relief during this transitional time.

Vasomotor Symptoms (neural and vascular)

First up in the symptom parade are hot flashes and their extended family of night sweats, chills, and heart palpitations. We classify these as vasomotor symptoms because the body dilates or contracts blood vessels more frequently to control its internal thermometer.

If your body temp alternates between fiery furnace and freezer mode, try layering your wardrobe with breathable fabrics so you can adjust and maintain comfort until the feelings subside.

Psychological Symptoms (mental)

Remember how you felt during puberty when your hormones first kicked in? Unchecked imbalances in the female sex hormones can make those days feel like child’s play.

Because sex hormones interact with neurotransmitters and other brain chemicals that influence mood and cognition, imbalances are often to blame for mood swings, memory lapses, inability to concentrate, anxiety, sadness, and depression.

Incorporate mood-boosting activities, sounds, and scents into your day. And never be shy about confiding in a friend/therapist when you need support to process a plague of negative thoughts and emotions.

Somatic Symptoms (physical)

From head to toe, the physical symptoms of menopause can target all areas of your body. Headaches, joint pain, muscle stiffness, backache, tingling or numbness, dizziness, and gastrointestinal issues are common complaints.

Some women experience changes in taste and smell. Others notice hair thinning and skin changes like dryness or acne flare-ups. Weight gain and slowed metabolism are also a factor in hormone fluctuations.

Relieving these symptoms takes some trial and error. Be patient with yourself and talk with a physician about the best options for pain relief, digestive support, or weight management.

Urogenital (sexual and pelvic floor)

As estrogen levels decline, the vaginal walls begin to thin, which means there’s less exfoliation in the vagina. With dryness and less glucose in the vagina, pH levels rise. Altogether, making you more susceptible to vaginal discomfort, infections, and inflammation. (So sexy, right?)

Not to worry. It’s all a part of the journey and can be managed by talking with your gynecologist about the changes or concerns you have for your vaginal health. Especially when pain, an unpleasant odor, or colorful discharge is present.

Don’t Suffer in Silence or Let Your Symptoms Get Dismissed

Even though these symptoms can be uncomfortable and bothersome, properly addressing them is the best way to reduce their intensity. Be proactive and discuss treatment options with your doctor.

Finding balance will help tremendously toward feeling more youthful and energized as you transition through the natural aging process.