It's a fact that menopause symptoms can create a lot of doubt and confusion to a woman especially when she notices strange things happening with her body.

It's also a fact that this confusion can be created by symptoms unrelated to menopause. So how do you know if that change in your life which you've thought about and dreaded has actually come knocking at your door?

In this article, we'll list seven sure signs that menopause is in your life. It's also worth pointing out that to be completely sure, you will need to visit your doctor to not only confirm it but discuss treatment options.

Seven Signs Of Menopause

1. One of the first tell tale signs of menopause symptoms are irregular periods. Although this is not an absolute guarantee, irregular periods which are either short, long or simply leave you guessing about whether you are actually having your period or not is a good sign that you could be in the early stages of menopause.

2. Hot flashes are one of the most common menopause symptoms and are caused as a result of dropping estrogen levels.

3. Lack of sex drive is another common symptom and there are varying factors contributing including vaginal dryness which makes having sex uncomfortable.

4. Outward irritability and mood swings which are particularly worrying especially if a woman's character and personality have never exhibited this behavior in the past can be another clue your body is starting to shut down it's fertility engine.

5. Depression is one of the main worries of menopause. A woman can be feeling particularly vulnerable at this time via thoughts of lack of hope as well as anxiety.

6. Lack of sleep is another sure sign of menopause symptoms. It's not so much a woman is unable to get any sleep through normal means but more about being kept awake or having her sleep broken because of night sweats and itching.

7. Increasing weight should be watched. Many women report weight gain during the early stages of menopause although, it's important not to get this confused with thyroid issues. When weight becomes an issue you should seriously consider looking at your diet and exercise regime.