Marking the end of menstruation, menopause is a natural process that mainly occurs in a person’s 40s or 50s. While menopause can cause an onslaught of symptoms, there are remedies for heavy menstrual bleeding and ways to treat heavy periods—for example, by using painkillers. Other remedies for menopausal symptoms can include a premarin prescription, medicine to stop menstrual bleeding, female lubricant for dryness, Imvexxy, and Oriahnn. Keep reading to learn more about some of the early warning signs of menopause:

1. Irregular menstrual cycles
One early warning sign of menopause is a change in the menstrual cycle. From your flow to the time between your periods, lots of changes may occur. Experiencing a heavier or lighter, shorter or longer, or less frequent cycle are all natural changes that the body may undergo in preparation for menopause.

2. Vaginal dryness
For those soon to experience menopause, a decline in estrogen levels can result in vaginal dryness. Moreover, this dryness can lead to discomfort during intercourse as well as itchiness. Some individuals may also experience a change in libido or sexual function.

3. Hot flashes
Experiencing a sudden, intense feeling of heat—typically in the face, chest, and neck—is known as a hot flash and is one of the early warning signs associated with menopause. These hot flashes typically bring with them a rapid heartbeat as well as sweating and redness. They can last anywhere from a couple of seconds to minutes at a time. Afterward, chills may follow. Night sweats are similar to hot flashes and are also an early warning sign, however they take place during sleep.

4. Skin changes
While changes in the skin can occur for a variety of different reasons, they can also be early signs of menopause. If your skin becomes more oily or drier than usual—perhaps bringing with it some adult acne—then there is a chance that you might be experiencing menopause or will be shortly.

5. Hair changes
Much like skin, changes in the hair can occur for a variety of different reasons but might also occur as an indication of menopause. Experiencing an increased hair loss or thinning hair are both typical signs, as well as an increase in facial hair.

6. Sleep difficulty and disturbances
Individuals soon to go through menopause may experience disturbances and difficulties with their sleep due to a change in hormone levels. Some of these disturbances include frequent waking and insomnia, which may lead to exhaustion and irritability during the day.