Going through menopause can be an extremely trying time for a woman. While parts of menopause are clear—like the cessation of a period and being able to throw out your generic Yasmin and emergency morning after pills—there are other changes that a woman undergoes that may surprise her.
Here are some of the common changes a woman undergoes when she goes through menopause.
1.    Her periods begin to taper off, and eventually end. When this happens, a woman loses her fertility capabilities. The emotion component to this varies woman to woman. Some are excited that they no longer need to deal with a monthly period or with the topic of birth control; while other women see this period as a mournful time—the end of their youth and the end of their abilities to procreate.
2.    Her breast tissue weakens and shrinks. This doesn’t happen the exact moment menopause sets in, but does begin around this time and continues until old age. This is why older women’s breasts tend to droop and their nipples become smaller and flatter.
3.    Vaginal dryness is a common occurrence for women going through menopause. Part of it is related to a drop in libido, and part is related simply to biology and the reduced ability to self-lubricate.  A water-based lubricant will help women deal with this. There are also Viagra-type treatments that are specially formulated for women that will treat vaginal dryness (like Sure Romance or Womera).
4.    A drop in libido and sexual arousal also occurs with menopausal women. Again, Sure Romance or Womera will help solve that problem, as will other methods of spicing up your sex life—new positions, new locations, new lingerie, etc.
5.    Mood swing – Your hormones are going through a roller coaster when it comes to progestin and estrogen changes. Many women find this time tiring and become anxious or depressed. That is normal. Consider seeing a therapist to discuss your issues.