Symptoms usually start a few months or years before your periods stop, known as the perimenopause, and can persist for some time afterwards.
On average, most symptoms last around four years from your last period. However, around 1 in every 10 women experience them for up to 12 years.
If you experience the menopause suddenly rather than gradually – for example, as a result of cancer treatment – your symptoms may be worse.
The first sign of the menopause is usually a change in the normal pattern of your periods. You may start having either unusually light or heavy periods.
The frequency of your periods may also be affected. You may have one every two or three weeks, or you may not have one for months at a time. Eventually, you’ll stop having periods altogether.
About 8 in every 10 women will have additional symptoms for some time before and after their periods stop.
These can have a significant impact on daily life for some women.
Common symptoms include:
The menopause can also increase your risk of developing certain other problems, such as weak bones (osteoporosis).
See your doctor if you’re finding your symptoms particularly troublesome, as treatments are available. Read About: How To Manage Symptoms of The Menopause.
Read More ON:
Menopause
Menopause Treatment
Sex After Menopause
Infertility
Causes of Infertility
Diagnosing Infertility
Preventing Infertility
Infertility Treatment
Infertility complications
Molar Pregnancy
Ectopic Pregnancy
Symptoms of Ectopic Pregnancy
Diagnosing Ectopic Pregnancy
Treating Ectopic Pregnancy
Miscarriage
Symptoms of Miscarriage
Causes of Miscarriage
Diagnosing Miscarriage
Preventing Miscarriage
What Happens if you Have a Miscarriage
Hysterectomy
Female Sexual Problems
Hormone Replacements Therapy
SOURCE NHS UK
http://www.nhs.uk/Conditions/Menopause/Pages/Symptoms.aspx