You may be transitioning into menopause if you begin experiencing some or all of the following symptoms:

Hot flashes (a sudden feeling of warmth that spreads over the body)
Night sweats and/or cold flashes
Vaginal dryness; discomfort during sex
Urinary urgency (a pressing need to urinate more frequently)
Difficulty sleeping (insomnia)
Emotional changes (irritability, mood swings, mild depression)
Dry skin, eyes or mouth
Women who are still in the menopause transition (perimenopause) may also experience:

Breast tenderness
Worsening of premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
Irregular periods or skipping periods
Periods that are heavier or lighter than usual

Some women might also experience:
Racing heart
Headaches
Joint and muscle aches and pains
Changes in libido (sex drive)
Difficulty concentrating, memory lapses (often temporary)
Weight gain
Hair loss or thinning

These symptoms can be a sign that the ovaries are producing less estrogen. Not all women get all of these symptoms. However, women affected with new symptoms of racing heart, urinary changes, headaches, or other new medical problems should see a doctor to make sure there is no other cause for these symptoms.