Menopause is defined as occurring 12 months after your last menstrual period and marks the end of menstrual cycles.
Common symptoms include:
- hot flushes
- night sweats
- vaginal dryness and discomfort during sex
- difficulty sleeping
- low mood or anxiety
- reduced sex drive (libido)
- problems with memory and concentration
Having one period where the flow is light could signal the onset of menopause. If you have a mom or sisters you could ask and see when they started going through menopause so you can get a timeframe, but each woman is different. From start to finish, it took me six years to get through menopause. Just when I thought I was done having a period (one gap was 11 months), then I would have one and have to start the clock over again.
See your OB-GYN for any specific questions.
