What is the menopause and perimenopause?

  • Menopause is the stage in woman’s life when her periods stop for one year and longer due to reduction and loss of ovarian function usually occurring between age 45 to 55. When oestrogen levels start to decline a whole range of symptoms can develop and have effect on woman’s wellbeing and health.

  • Most women experience changes before they reach menopause. This transition phase is called Perimenopause with periods irregularity and usually occur in woman above age of 45. Hormones are very variable during this stage with whole variation of symptoms.

  • Some women can go through menopause even before this age which is Early Menopause and sometimes even before the age of 40 and this is known as Premature Ovarian Insufficiency (POI). This group of women especially can benefit from HRT for long term health effect like prevention of osteoporosis and there is evidence that has benefit for cardiovascular protection.

  • Hot flushes

  • Night sweats

  • Anxiety

  • Low mood

  • Sleep disturbance

  • Anger/mood swings

  • Irritability

Symptoms can vary but the most common are:

  • Brain fog and poor concentration

  • Forgetfulness

  • Low energy

  • Hair and skin changes

  • Joint and muscle aches

  • Low libido

  • Vaginal dryness

Menopause and lack of oestrogen can have a long term health effect, particularly on bones, increasing the risk of osteoporosis and potentially increased the risk of heart disease.

Don’t be ashamed to ask for help on taking charge of your menopause and returning to your best self.