Overview
Menopause is the natural end of a woman's menstrual periods, usually around the late forties to early fifties, marking the close of the reproductive years. As hormone levels fall, many women experience hot flushes, night sweats, mood changes and disturbed sleep for a few years. It is a normal life stage, not a disease, but the symptoms and the long-term effects on bone and heart health can be managed with lifestyle measures and, when needed, medical treatment.
Symptoms
- Periods becoming irregular and then stopping
- Hot flushes and night sweats
- Mood swings, irritability or low mood
- Disturbed sleep
- Vaginal dryness and reduced bone strength over time
When to see a doctor
See a doctor if symptoms are troublesome, or for any bleeding after periods have stopped, which always needs checking.
Emergency — call 108 or go to the nearest hospital
- Any vaginal bleeding after periods have fully stopped for a year — see a doctor promptly, as it must be investigated
Causes
The natural decline of the ovaries' hormone production with age. It can also follow surgery to remove the ovaries or some cancer treatments.