I haven't menstruated in 5 months and I'm concerned.

Hi Anon and welcome to EmpowHER.

It's understandable that you would be concerned if you haven't had a period in five months. Thanks for your question.

The average age of natural menopause is around ages 47 to 52. Technically menopause is when a woman hasn't had periods for a full 12 months.

This can be confusing to many who are having symptoms  in their early forties. This time of mild to severe chaos is often known as perimenopause. Your physician can help you with hormone (blood) tests to determine if you are entering perimenopause.

Typically,symptoms include hot flashes, night sweats, sleep problems, mood swings, irregular periods, heavier periods and unexplained weight gain around the middle.

Other symptoms are vaginal dryness, decreased sex drive, painful sex, joint pain, brain fog, short-term memory issues, hair loss, hair thinning, dry skin and more.

Going into perimenopause can impact your health, emotions, body, mood and other aspects but life, but there are also treatment options and other ways to help manage this. You can find more information in our Perimenopause Community section.

Has this helped? Let us know what you learn from your doctor and if we can help further.

Best,

Pam