Living with the menopause

The menopause is a natural part of aging for women, typically occurring between 45 and 55 years of age. It is marked by the end of menstrual periods and signifies the end of a woman's reproductive years.

Common symptoms include hot flushes, night sweats, mood swings, vaginal dryness, and disrupted sleep. Symptoms can vary in severity and duration for different women.

Most women in the UK enter menopause between the ages of 45 and 55, with the average age being around 51.

Menopause symptoms can last for several years. For some women, symptoms last around 4 years, while others may experience symptoms for over a decade.

Perimenopause is the transition period leading up to menopause when a woman's hormone levels start to change. Symptoms can begin several years before menopause and continue until the ovaries stop releasing eggs.

While menopause is a natural process that doesn't require treatment, its symptoms can be managed through lifestyle changes, hormone replacement therapy (HRT), and other medications. Consult your GP for advice on managing menopause symptoms.

HRT is a treatment used to relieve menopausal symptoms by replacing hormones that are at a lower level during menopause. It can come in the form of tablets, skin patches, gels, and implants.

HRT can have some risks, including a slight increase in the risk of breast cancer and blood clots. However, these risks are small and should be weighed against the benefits. Consult your GP to discuss your individual risks and benefits.

Lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy diet, regular physical exercise, quitting smoking, and reducing alcohol intake can help improve menopausal symptoms. Stress management techniques like yoga and mindfulness can also be beneficial.

Yes, mood swings are common during menopause due to hormonal changes. If mood swings are severe, it is advisable to speak with a healthcare provider for support and potential treatments.

Menopause can affect sexual health, including reduced libido and vaginal dryness, which can cause discomfort during sex. Lubricants and moisturizers, as well as HRT, can help alleviate these symptoms.

A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can help manage menopause symptoms. Foods high in calcium and vitamin D are particularly important for bone health during menopause.

Regular exercise can help alleviate menopausal symptoms such as hot flushes, mood swings, and sleep problems. It also promotes overall health, aiding in the prevention of weight gain and osteoporosis.

Some women find relief from menopause symptoms through alternative treatments such as herbal supplements (e.g., black cohosh, evening primrose oil), acupuncture, and mindfulness. It's important to discuss these with a healthcare provider to ensure they're safe and effective.

You should consult a doctor if you're experiencing severe symptoms that affect your quality of life, if you have menopausal symptoms before the age of 45, or if symptoms continue well beyond the average menopausal age. A healthcare provider can offer guidance and treatment options.