What are the primary symptoms of menopause?

• A. Weight gain and hair loss
• B. Hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness
• C. Fatigue and depression
• D. Irregular heartbeat and dizziness

Answer: (B)

The primary symptoms of menopause primarily revolve around hormonal changes that occur as a woman transitions from her reproductive years to the end of menstrual cycles. Hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness are the most characteristic symptoms associated with menopause.

Hot flashes are sudden feelings of warmth that spread over the body, often accompanied by sweating, flushing, and discomfort. They are directly related to the decline in estrogen levels and can vary in intensity and duration. Night sweats, which are nocturnal episodes of sweating that can disrupt sleep, also stem from these hormonal fluctuations. Vaginal dryness can occur due to decreased estrogen, leading to changes in vaginal tissue, which can cause discomfort during intercourse and other issues related to sexual health.

While weight gain, fatigue, and other symptoms such as depression might occur during this period, they are not the hallmark signs of menopause itself. Such symptoms can be influenced by various factors, including lifestyle and individual health status, but they are not as specifically linked to the physiological changes of menopause as hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness are. Understanding these primary symptoms can help in managing the transition and addressing the needs of women undergoing menopause effectively.