With approximately 1.3 million women entering menopause each year, many can be left feeling confused and isolated by unexpected changes in their daily lives. While hot flashes and mood swings are widely recognized as menopausal symptoms, women’s health specialist Amanda Olson, M.D., reveals that many are missing vital early warning signs that could better prepare them for this significant life transition.
“We’re seeing women in their early 40s brush off important signals from their bodies, simply because they think they’re too young for menopause,” says olson, president and chief clinical officer of Intimate Rose, a company specializing in women’s health. “Women need to understand these subtle signs, to help them navigate this often-difficult transition.”
Many women are surprised to learn that some of their everyday frustrations, from suddenly hating familiar scents to misplacing items more often, could be early indicators of perimenopause, the natural transition period before menopause that can begin in your early 40s. Here are five unexpected signs Olson says you shouldn’t dismiss:
1. Suddenly can’t stand your favorite perfume?
If you’re finding yourself turning your nose up at scents you used to love, or suddenly can’t bear your partner’s aftershave, it might not be them. It could be you. Changes in smell sensitivity are a sneaky sign many women miss.
“It’s not uncommon for women to suddenly find themselves buying expensive perfumes or gagging at their usual cleaning products,” says Olson. “These changes in smell sensitivity are linked to fluctuating estrogen levels, which affect how our brain processes scents. Some women notice these changes years before other menopausal symptoms appear.”
Rather than immediately replacing all your scented products, Olson suggests keeping a note of these changes to discuss with your healthcare provider. You might also consider temporarily switching to unscented versions of your usual products until your sensitivity stabilizes.
2. Tossing and turning all night?
Finding yourself wide awake at 3 a.m. scrolling through your phone, even though you’re physically exhausted? Before you blame that late-afternoon coffee, these sleep disruptions could be an early sign of hormonal changes.
“Sleep changes are frustrating because they create a vicious cycle,” says Olson. “You’re exhausted but can’t sleep, then you’re tired all day, only to lie awake again at night. Many women assume it’s just stress or poor sleep habits, but hormone fluctuations can wreak havoc on your sleep patterns.”
Olson recommends establishing a consistent bedtime routine and keeping your bedroom cool and dark. If sleep disruption becomes persistent, it’s worth discussing with your healthcare provider as there are various support options available.
3. Brain playing tricks on you?
Lost your keys again? Forgotten why you went upstairs? Put the milk in the cupboard and the cereal in the fridge? These moments can feel scary and isolating, but rest assured you’re not losing your mind—these “brain fog” experiences are a perfectly normal part of hormonal changes that many women go through.
“Brain fog is one of the most concerning symptoms for women,” says Olson. “We hear from countless women who think they’re developing serious memory problems, which adds unnecessary anxiety to an already challenging time. However, these cognitive changes are common during perimenopause and often temporary.”
These moments can be especially challenging when juggling work and family life. Olson suggests simple strategies like keeping a gentle routine, writing things down, and most importantly, being kind to yourself during these transitions. Remember – your brain isn’t failing you; it’s adjusting to natural hormonal changes.
4. Temperature sensitivity?
If you’re constantly fiddling with the thermostat or struggling to maintain a comfortable temperature, you’re not being difficult or overly sensitive. These temperature fluctuations often appear before the more commonly known hot flushes, and they can be both confusing and frustrating.
“These shifts in temperature sensitivity can be incredibly frustrating,” Olson explains. “One minute you’re opening windows in December, the next you’re shivering under a blanket. While family members might not understand these sudden changes, they’re very real and can significantly impact your daily comfort.”
Olson recommends dressing in easily removable layers and keeping a small fan or cooling towel handy. It’s also helpful to explain these changes to those close to you – having their understanding can make managing temperature fluctuations feel less isolating. Remember, these experiences are a natural part of your body’s journey, not something you need to apologize for or hide.
5. Hair and skin doing their own thing?
Suddenly finding your trusted beauty products aren’t working like they used to? If your hair is becoming more brittle or your skin feels different, you’re not imagining things. These changes might not be about your products letting you down. It could be menopause making its presence known.
“Women often spend a fortune trying new beauty products, thinking their usual ones have stopped working,” says Olson. “In reality, their skin and hair are changing due to hormone shifts. Some women even notice changes in their body odor or find their usual deodorant isn’t as effective, all of which is completely normal, though rarely discussed.”
These changes can feel particularly personal and affect self-confidence, but they’re not a reflection of your self-care routine falling short. Olson suggests working with a healthcare provider to find solutions that make you feel more comfortable and confident during this transition.
The timing of these changes can catch women off guard. You might notice them in your late 30s or early 40s, years before you expected to think about menopause. This doesn’t mean something’s wrong – it’s your body’s natural transition.
“What we want women to know is that recognizing these signs early can be empowering,” says Olson. “Instead of silently questioning these changes or brushing them off as just getting older, you can take proactive steps. Whether that’s opening up to your healthcare provider, adjusting your daily routine, or simply giving yourself grace during this transition.”
The most important thing to remember is that you’re not imagining these changes, and you’re certainly not alone. Every woman’s experience is unique, but millions of us go through this transition. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider—they can offer support and solutions tailored to your specific needs.”
