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This information is provided by an independent source. Merck & Co., Inc. is not responsible for this content. The information provided on these various health topics is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. You should always contact your health or medical practitioner to get the most accurate information about your condition. This information should not be used to make a diagnosis. Please discuss any and all treatment options with your healthcare professional.

Understanding Menopause - Feeling Good in a New Stage of Life


Your Menopause Experience

Like most women, you likely have a busy and active life. That's why you may have been caught by surprise when you started noticing changes in your body. Mood swings and shifting sleep patterns may be symptoms of approaching menopause. Read on to learn more about what you can do to keep feeling your best.


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Talk with your health care provider when you
begin to notice changes in your menstrual cycle.
Symptoms of Change

Women often begin having symptoms of menopause in their mid-40s, although most experience menopause itself (when menses stops) in their early-50s. But no two women are the same. Menopause might happen earlier or later for you. Som

e common symptoms include:

  • Hot flashes

  • Periods that come more or less often, or are lighter or heavier than you are used to

  • Increased premenstrual syndrome (PMS)

  • Night sweats, trouble sleeping

  • Mood swings

  • Fatigue


To Keep Feeling Good

You may notice no symptoms of menopause, or perhaps just a few. Or maybe you have symptoms that really bother you. In any case, there are things you can do to stay healthy and improve your sense of well-being. Start by learning about how your body is changing. Then find out what you can do to limit any symptoms you have.

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Do something for yourself. Looking
and feeling good can increase your
sense of well-being.



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This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care.
Only your doctor can diagnose and treat a medical problem.
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