Sudden fatigue? Memory problems? Irregular periods? It might be more than just stress.

For many women, changes in the body or emotions can be the first signs of a big hormonal shift: early menopause. It’s an invisible but very real condition that can show up before age 45. Recognizing the signs early can help you take better care of yourself.

1. Periods that come and go unpredictably

If your menstrual cycle is all over the place—sometimes close together, other times weeks apart—it could be a sign your hormones are changing. This is often the first clue that you’re entering perimenopause, the stage leading up to menopause. Everyone experiences it differently—some women like Naomi Watts entered menopause as early as 36, while others much later.

2. Constant need to pee? It’s not just your bladder

If you’re running to the bathroom more often, hormones might be to blame. Lower estrogen levels can weaken pelvic muscles and affect your bladder, causing frequent urges to urinate, some discomfort, or even minor leaks. It’s a signal from your body—not something to ignore.

3. Burning or dry mouth? Yes, it’s a thing

Some women experience a burning feeling in the mouth, dry tongue, or strange taste. This lesser-known symptom is also tied to falling estrogen levels. It can feel like a small fire in your mouth and is often overlooked.

4. Hot flashes: the classic warning sign

Those sudden waves of heat that rise from your chest to your face, often with sweating or chills, are hot flashes. They can hit during the day or wake you up at night—ruining your sleep and making you feel exhausted.

5. Mood swings that seem to come out of nowhere

Feel more emotional than usual? Irritability, anxiety, or even sadness are common during menopause. That’s because a drop in estrogen affects serotonin, the brain’s “feel-good” chemical. This can make your moods feel unpredictable.

6. Can’t sleep through the night?

Trouble falling asleep, waking up often, or feeling drained no matter how long you sleep? Hormonal changes can trigger night sweats and restless sleep, leaving you tired and mentally worn out.

7. Brain fog and forgetfulness

If you struggle to focus, forget words mid-sentence, or feel mentally fuzzy, you’re not alone. This common “brain fog” is linked to hormone changes that affect how the brain works.

8. Tingling or numbness in hands and feet

Some women feel pins and needles, itching, or numbness in their extremities. These nerve-related symptoms can be linked to the drop in estrogen.

9. Dry eyes and blurry vision

Less estrogen can also affect your eyes. You might notice dryness, irritation, or even blurry vision, as the glands that keep your eyes moist become less active.

10. Change in body odor

A shift in hormones can make your sweat smell stronger or different. This happens because hormonal changes affect your skin and the bacteria on it.

11. Hair gets thinner, skin feels tighter

Your skin may become dry or more sensitive, and hair might thin out. Some women also notice fine facial hair. A healthy lifestyle and the right skincare can help manage these changes.

12. Stomach troubles you didn’t expect

Hormonal changes can also mess with digestion. Things like bloating, gas, constipation, or poor appetite can show up due to slower digestion caused by less estrogen.

Final thoughts: Know the signs, care for yourself early

Early menopause isn’t a myth. It affects many women—even as young as 35. By noticing the signs early, you can take steps to adjust your routine and get medical support.
Your body speaks—just make sure you’re listening.