What signals the end of menopause?

Are you tired of feeling like your body is playing a never-ending game? And you find yourself wondering, “What signals the end of menopause?” When will this ride of hormonal fluctuations end? If all this frustration sounds familiar, you are not the only one feeling this way.

The menopause transition can often feel like you are walking into a dark tunnel with no end in sight. It leaves you wondering if there is any more light. Fear not; there is indeed light in the end, and all of this will come to an end when your hormonal fluctuations calm down. So, if you have been feeling lost and worried about when it will all end, here are 12 signals that are the answer to your query, “What signals the end of menopause?” Let’s first explore what keeps happening during menopause and how you would know that it is coming to an end.

What happens during the menopause transition?

During menopause, when the levels of oestrogen go up and down, it changes your physical and emotional states. It can be pretty rough. You may feel sudden heat spreading around your face, and your mood may change in a matter of minutes. Sleep quality may not stay the same as it was before you entered menopause. And let’s not forget about irregular periods or weight changes. There are 34 symptoms of menopause, and you never know what will choose to disturb you.

Your body goes through a big adjustment, but keep in mind that once your hormonal fluctuations stop and your oestrogen level stabilises, all of these unpleasant symptoms resolve or diminish, and this is when you know the end of the shift is here. Let’s explore the signals of its end.

What signals the end of menopause?

The following are the signals that may give you a sense of relief knowing that your menopause transition is coming to an end.

1. Period-free life

Your period dates may no longer appear on your calendar. When you ask your doctor: What signals the end of menopause? The first answer they will give you is that your period ends.’ The decreasing oestrogen levels make your periods go absent for 12 consecutive months, and this is when you know your menopause is reaching its end. The hormonal changes first disrupt your period cycle and then completely stop it. You may first experience irregular periods, changes in the flow, or finding blood spots on your pad. It is all normal, and the complete absence of periods becomes a reassuring sign that it is the end.

2. Hot flashes diminish

You are having a tough time because of hot flashes during the day and even at night (night sweats). All of this is happening because of fluctuations in oestrogen levels. But when you reach the end, these levels will stabilise, and you may feel a decrease in frequency as well as severity for such episodes. The exhaustion during the day and night disturbances will all go away when the hormonal fluctuations end. These episodes will gradually become less frequent and less intense, offering you some much-needed respite and relief.

3. Calm mood

Mood swings are very common during menopause. They also add another layer of complexity to your daily life. You may be happy one minute and sad the very next. This is not in your control because of the hormones playing in the back. But as you get closer to the end of this journey, you’ll notice these mood swings starting to subside, allowing you to regain a sense of calm and stability. Stable hormones mean a stable mood. The depressive episodes and anxious feelings may also reduce, and you may feel new to life.

4. Quality sleep

You’re not the only one who experiences daylong exhaustion and an unwanted visitor—night sweats—disturbing your sleep. The symptoms you’re dealing with the whole day may drain you, and you are less likely to enjoy and get a proper night’s sleep. Know that near the conclusion of menopause, when oestrogen stabilises and all of the symptoms start resolving, your sleep quality will improve. So, another sign of the list: “What signals the end of menopause?” Is sleeping better. You’ll find yourself drifting off to sleep more easily and waking up feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

5. Revitalised Vaginal health

Menopause and associated hormonal decline cause discomfort down there. Less oestrogen in your blood makes your vaginal lining thin and dry, which ultimately causes itching and burning and reduces your sexual experience. It can make intimacy feel like a chore. But as menopause reaches its conclusion, you’ll notice a significant improvement in your vaginal health; there will be a reduction in dryness and itching.

6. UTI relief

There are well-balanced bacteria in your vagina. During menopause, when oestrogen levels are fluctuating, this bacterial balance gets disturbed. Bacteria are more likely to travel up towards the tube that is passing pee out of your body. It causes bacterial infections down there—urinary tract infections. The constant threat of UTIs during menopause adds to your worries, but once your hormone levels stabilise, you notice a decrease in these infections. It will allow you to go about your day without any fear of an uncomfortable episode.

7. Weight stability achieved

Weight gain might be adding to your frustrations, making you feel sluggish and self-conscious. It happens because declining oestrogen levels increase the fat deposition around your midsection (abdomen) and reduce muscle mass. A lot of females complain about unexplained weight gain during menopause. But as your metabolism regulates itself, you’ll find that your weight stabilises, giving you one less thing to worry about and allowing you to focus on living your life to the fullest. It means that stable weight is another answer to the question: What signals the end of menopause?

Moreover, if you are worried about weight gain, you can follow the menopause diet 5-day plan to lose weight.

8. Joint comfort

The increase in weight and bone weakening during menopause because of decreased oestrogen puts extra stress on joints. Also, oestrogen controls swelling and when it is less in the blood,  your joints are more likely to get swollen and irritated, which causes joint pain and muscle aches during menopause. Joint and muscle pain might be making it difficult for you to stay active and enjoy the things you love. But as menopause fades into the background, you’ll notice a decrease in this discomfort. You will be able to move more freely and comfortably.

9. Breast comfort

The pain and tenderness in your breasts can also add to your discomfort, making your everyday tasks feel like chores. It might feel uncomfortable to move around, exercise, or even wear certain clothes. But as your hormone levels stabilise, you’ll find that the intensity of this pain decreases. You’ll be able to enjoy activities that were once painful or uncomfortable, like going for walks or exercising, without any discomfort in your breast.

10. Hair loss reduces

Menopause hair loss may be stressing you out. You might notice more hair on your brush and shower drain. This can make you feel less confident and self-assured. Hormonal imbalance makes your hair more fragile and its roots weaker. But as your hormone levels stabilise, you’ll notice a significant improvement in the quality of your hair, giving you back that volume and healthy mane that you’ve been missing.

11. Libido returns

Do you recall the moment you believed your yearning for closeness had vanished forever? When menopause ends, your libido returns.  Mark it as another sign on the list of: What signals the end of menopause?  As menopause waves goodbye and your body gets used to less oestrogen, you might find yourself feeling more interested in intimacy. During menopause, low oestrogen levels can make you less interested in sex, as well as the compromised vaginal health associated with it. But as your body adjusts, you might notice a boost in your desire for intimacy. This can make you feel happier and more connected to your partner, bringing excitement to your relationship.

12. Sense of Well-being

When menopause bids farewell and your body adjusts to its new normal, especially with less oestrogen, you’ll start feeling better overall. No more feeling constantly tired or grumpy! Instead, you’ll experience a sense of lightness and increased energy, akin to the release of a burden. During menopause, lower oestrogen levels can make you feel moody and tired. But as your body gets used to the changes, you’ll start feeling more like yourself again, ready to enjoy life and all its adventures.

Conclusion

Understanding the signals of the end of menopause provides you with clarity and comfort in this transformative phase. As symptoms like hot flashes and mood swings ease and menstrual periods cease for 12 consecutive months, it indicates the conclusion of menopause. While this journey may feel challenging, relief is on the horizon. By staying informed, seeking support from loved ones, and prioritising self-care, women can navigate through menopause with resilience and grace. Embracing this transition as a natural part of life’s journey opens the door to new experiences and opportunities for personal growth. With patience and positivity, women can emerge from menopause feeling empowered and ready to embrace the next chapter of their lives.

FAQs

1. How do I know when menopause is coming to an end?

When your periods go missing for 12 consecutive months,it is a hallmark that your menopause has ended and you are entering your postmenopause stage. To find more signs, read “What signals the end of menopause? 12 Signs” above.

 2. Does menopause ever end?

Yes, menopause does end. It happens in three stages. Menopause itself is defined as the cessation of menstrual periods for 12 consecutive months, marking the end of a woman’s reproductive years.

 3. At what age does menopause end?

There is no fixed age, as it varies from person to person. The age range for the end of menopause, which marks the transition into postmenopause, typically falls between 45 and 55 years old for most women. Read our detailed blog on how long does menopause lasts.