Understanding menopause: What every woman should know

Menopause is a natural phase of life that every woman with ovaries will experience. Yet for many, it arrives with confusion, frustration and a surprising lack of information. Sarah Block, DNP, a women’s health provider at SSM Health, is working to change that. Her certification as a Menopause Society Certified Practitioner (MSCP) reflects her advanced training, education, and expertise in evidence-based menopause care.

It starts earlier than you think

Many women associate menopause with their 50s, but symptoms can begin much earlier. “Perimenopause—the time leading up to menopause—can start as early as age 35,” Block said. “This stage is marked by fluctuating hormone levels and can bring a wide range of symptoms that affect every system in the body.”

Menopause itself is diagnosed after 12 consecutive months without a period. But for women on hormonal birth control or those who’ve had a hysterectomy, this distinction can be harder to make. That’s why understanding the symptoms is key.

The symptoms: more than just hot flashes

While hot flashes and night sweats are well-known signs, Block emphasized that the effects of decreasing estrogen, progesterone and testosterone are far-reaching. “We see everything from mood changes and anxiety to joint pain, fatigue and even symptoms that mimic ADHD,” she said. “Women may also experience hair thinning, dry skin, weight gain around the midsection and sleep disturbances—especially waking between 2 and 4 a.m.”

These symptoms can be life-altering, affecting relationships, work and overall quality of life. “Irritability, rage and emotional sensitivity are common and distressing,” Block added. “It’s important for partners to understand what’s happening and offer support.”

Real women, real stories

Lisa Peterson, 52, began experiencing night sweats, hot flashes and fatigue a few years after getting an IUD. “I felt irrational at times and didn’t like the person I was becoming,” she said. Hormone therapy changed everything. “It’s been life-changing. I feel like myself again,” she said.

Tessa Karls, a 42-year-old mom of four, noticed her energy and mood shifting after her last pregnancy. “I didn’t even recognize myself some days,” she said. After meeting with Block and starting treatment, including an estrogen patch and lifestyle changes, she felt validated and hopeful. “For the first time in a while, I felt normal,” she said.

Treatment options and what to ask

Block encourages women to seek care early. “There’s no one-size-fits-all approach,” she said. “We tailor treatment to each woman’s symptoms and goals.” While hormone therapy is the most effective option, lifestyle changes like diet, exercise and stress reduction are also important.

She recommends women come to appointments prepared with:

• A list of symptoms
• Family history of menopause
• Questions about treatment options
• Concerns about mental health
• Openness to discussing emotional and physical changes

Breaking the silence

Historically, menopause has been under-discussed—even among doctors. But that’s changing. “There’s more awareness now, and hormone therapy is safer than once believed,” Block said. “Women deserve to feel good in their own skin and thrive—not just survive this transition.”

Ready to feel like yourself again?

Schedule an appointment with an SSM Health Women’s Health provider today and get personalized support for perimenopause, menopause and beyond.

Learn more about SSM Health’s services for women’s health.