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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Bibi Lynch

From hot flushes to weight gain: a doctor explains the common menopause signs and symptoms

Portrait of young woman without makeup in black summer dress smiling in bright photo studio with white background
Understanding the changes your body undergoes during menopause is vital to seeking out the support you need. Photograph: Olga Kozicka/Stocksy United

Menopause is a major life change that every woman goes through. And yet, for many of us, our knowledge of the physical and mental signs and symptoms – and their causes – is pretty minimal.

Yes, we’ve all probably heard mention of hot flushes and weight gain – but few of us are likely to know that these are just two of many possible signs and symptoms of perimenopause and menopause. Of course, every woman’s experience is different, and few will find themselves with more than a handful of these signs and symptoms. But understanding what’s going on in your body as you enter a new stage of life can not only be incredibly comforting and empowering, but also an incentive to seek out the help and support you need and deserve.

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