Women's bodies change at different times between childhood to womanhood then from the childbearing years to menopause. As their bodies transition there are different signs that signal these changes. One of the most significant periods is premenopause or perimenopause. During this time many women suffer through body changes that are often uncomfortable and dramatic. Hot flashes, cessation of the menstrual cycle, foggy mind, sleep changes, and vaginal dryness are just some of the signs that help women to recognize this period of change.

Between the early forties and on many women begin to feel hot flashes that hint at changes in their bodies. They may periodically feel flustered and hot in the upper torso and face. These sensations may range from mild manifestations to feelings of being almost incapacitated by heat. At these times many women seek to cool their bodies only to find that their body temperatures have dropped to uncomfortable levels. Because these hot flashes may occur several times a day, especially at night it can disrupt sleep.

A second sign of early menopause is some foggy thinking. Many women begin to worry at this time because they find their short term memory appears to short circuit. Things that they found easy to remember in the past are difficult to roll off the tongue. Trying to retrieve information from the brain is difficult and a woman may find it frustrating to answer questions. At these time a woman may worry that they are having symptoms of Alzheimer's or senility. Because these symptoms may mimic other problems it is a good time to visit a doctor for a checkup. A physician can often detect whether a woman is going through the process of perimenopause through some simple test.

Another symptom of this early period is changes in patterns of sleep. A woman may find her sleep disrupted. She may wake up at unusual periods of the night and find it difficult to go back to sleep. At this time many women may be tempted to awaken and stay awake. During these times it is best to stay in bed even if sleep does not return.

Many women may find that some normal body functions may also change. Many women find that their bodies do not produce as much vaginal lubrication as before. Because of these many body changes it would be a good idea to talk to a physician who can advise how best to proceed. Although there are some over the counter medications that may help, some people may need more help and advice.

Although this process may be a part of normal body function and transition, many women find it useful to use some modern medications that help alleviate these problems. It is up to the individual. Medicines are a marvel, but must be used with care and wisdom because everything as a side effect.

With the invention of the Internet there is a vast amount of information that is available at our fingertips. Counseling with a physician and looking to the resources that are the fingertips can help this transition be more smooth.

Learn more about this author, Bernadette Jasmin.
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