Even though menopause is not a disease, you shouldn’t hesitate to seek treatment for severe symptoms. Many effective treatments are available, from lifestyle adjustments to hormone therapy.

Technically, women don’t actually “hit” menopause until it’s been one year since their final menstrual period. On average, that happens at about age 51.

But in the months or years leading up to that point, you might experience these signs and symptoms:

• Irregular periods
• Decreased fertility
• Vaginal dryness
• Hot flashes
• Sleep disturbances
• Medication fails to help