Menopause symptoms
Also called: Perimenopause, Climacteric
The natural end of menstruation (average age 51) as ovarian hormone production falls. Symptoms can be troublesome and effective treatments exist.
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Causes
- Decline of ovarian follicles and oestrogen
Risk factors
- Earlier with smoking, surgery or chemotherapy (premature ovarian insufficiency before 40)
Symptoms
- Hot flushes and night sweats
- Irregular then absent periods
- Mood changes and poor sleep
- Vaginal dryness and urinary symptoms
- Joint aches
- Brain fog
Diagnosis — tests and examinations
- Clinical diagnosis over 45; blood tests (FSH) only in younger women
Treatment
Medicines and medical treatment
- Hormone replacement therapy — oestrogen with progestogen if the womb is present
- Vaginal oestrogen for local symptoms
- Fezolinetant (non-hormonal) for hot flushes
- SSRIs/SNRIs or gabapentin as alternatives
Self-care, home remedies and lifestyle
- Regular exercise, cooling strategies
- CBT for flushes and sleep
- Bone health: calcium, vitamin D, weight-bearing exercise
Possible complications
- Osteoporosis
- Cardiovascular risk increases
- Genitourinary syndrome of menopause
Prevention
- Not applicable
Outlook
Symptoms usually ease over several years; HRT benefits generally outweigh risks for most women under 60.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if symptoms affect daily life, or for any bleeding after menopause.
Sources and further reading
These sources cover this condition. They have not been checked against every statement on this page.
Related conditions
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