Mood swings including irritability, depression, and anxiety
Irregular menstrual periods
Spotting of blood in between periods
Vaginal dryness and painful sexual intercourse
Decreased sex drive
Vaginal infections
Urinary tract infections
In addition, the long-term effects of menopause include:
Bone loss and eventual osteoporosis
Changes in cholesterol levels and greater risk of heart disease
Signs and tests:
Blood and urine tests can be used to measure hormone levels that may indicate when a woman is close to menopause or has already gone through menopause. Examples of these tests include:
A pelvic exam may indicate changes in the vaginal lining caused by changes in estrogen levels. A bone density test may be performed to screen for low bone density levels seen with osteoporosis.
References:
Weismiller D. The Perimenopause and Menopause Experience: An Overview. Clin Fam Practice. 2002; 4(1).
Review Date: 2/27/2006
Reviewed By: Melanie N. Smith, M.D., Ph.D., Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brigham and Women's Hospital, Boston, MA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.
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