The symptoms of menopause are caused by changes in estrogen and progesterone levels and can last for up to 5-years or more. As the ovaries become less functional, they produce less estrogen/progesterone and the body subsequently reacts.
Some women experience no symptoms, while others experience mild to severe symptoms. This variation is normal. A gradual decrease of estrogen allows the body to slowly adjust to the hormonal changes during menopause, but in some women a sudden decrease in estrogen level occurs, causing severe symptoms. This is often seen when menopause is caused by surgical removal of uterus (Surgical Menopause).
Symptoms of menopause include:

Irregular menstruation

Palpitations (irregular heartbeats)

Hot flashes or hot flushes

Night sweats

Skin flushing

Insomnia

Decreased libido

Painful sexual intercourse

Migraine

Mood swings including irritability, depression and anxiety

Vaginal dryness

Vaginal infections

Joint aches and pains

Urinary frequency, urgency or incontinence