Menopause usually occurs between the ages of 40 and 50, and actually, this period is called pre-menopause. This is the time when you will notice changes occurring. The hormone estrogen, which was once vital to the reproductive cycle, starts to be minimally produced as you get older. This usually results in vaginal pain, dryness and an irregular menstrual cycle as women start to go through the "change," and may begin to look for menopause treatment.

The first changes start slowly, but may become irritating! There may be some irregular periods that come and go at unexpected times. This is caused by the lower estrogen in the body, which controls the monthly cycle. The pre-menopause stage will last for as many as ten years, but symptoms may change as you begin to get closer to full menopause.

A couple more minor menopause symptoms you may experience are hot flushes and/or night sweats. Usually you start to sweat uncontrollably when a hot flash comes on unexpectedly. It's called a "flash" because it doesn't last long. You will feel very warm, possibly really hot, start to sweat, and then it will subside in a few moments. Your body instantly goes into cool-down mode, which is why you start to sweat uncontrollably as your body attempts to reduce your temperature. This is one of the major things that happens during menopause that women seek menopause treatment for.

Night sweats are the same as hot flashes. But since they occur at night, the body may continue to sweat because you are not helping it cool down. But by the time you wake up and take notice, you may be drenched in a cold sweat as your hot flash subsides, and the sweat cools. This is where the hot flash got the name cold sweat.

Mood swings are also a common early menopause symptom, and one that affects both men and women alike.Mood swings are as common as PMS and you may begin to feel depressed, or experience a sense of pending doom. You may suffer from insomnia as you start to feel less confident and start to worry more about what's going on with your body.

Insomnia may cause further mood changes, which doesn't help at all! Your husband and family need to be aware of these changes; and you will definitely need to be conscious of what you say and do. Your best defense here is awareness, and to think twice before going off on a rampage. Hormones (or decreasing amounts) can cause havoc with both your mind and body so be careful during this time.

We have only listed the top menopause symptoms that almost every woman will experience. There are about thirty more that may occur as time passes. Both men and women need to be informed of these important changes because family support is particularly important during this time You'll find more information on Menopause Treatment and what to expect at http://www.911Menopause.com.