What are the signs of menopause?

What are the signs of menopause that women in their 40s should look out for? What are the symptoms that should raise concern?

It is interesting that many women will mimic their mothers’ cycles and start experiencing menopause at the same age their mothers did. However, there is no particular pattern to the symptoms signaling the onset of menopause. Some women will experience more frequent and heavier bleeding while others will have fewer and lighter periods. And of course there are the common symptoms of mood swings, irritability and hot flashes. You should see your physician if menopause interrupts your life or if you have extreme mood swings or heavy bleeding that leaves you feeling tired or weak.