Menopause

Overview

Understanding the change, easing your symptoms and staying well for the years ahead. Every woman reaches menopause, but it does not have to be the difficult experience you may have heard about. The specialists at Minerva Women's Healthcare provide education and symptom relief for women entering and moving through menopause. We take a positive, supportive approach to this natural stage of life. Schedule an appointment today by calling our office or requesting your consultation online.

At a glance

Menopause is the end of your monthly periods. You have reached it when you have had no period for 12 months, with no other cause
The years leading up to it, called perimenopause, can bring changes in your periods and other symptoms
On average, menopause happens around age 51, but timing varies widely
Not every woman has significant symptoms, and effective treatments are available for those who do
Any bleeding after menopause should be checked by a doctor

What is menopause?

Many people use the word "menopause" to describe a process lasting several years, during which the ovaries release fewer eggs and oestrogen levels fall. Strictly speaking, menopause means a "pause in menstruation" and marks the end of your monthly periods.

The time leading up to your last period is better described as perimenopause, meaning "around menopause". Falling oestrogen levels, fewer eggs and other changes begin long before your periods stop.

When does it happen?

On average, menopause occurs at about age 51. Perimenopause can begin four to eight years before your last period, usually in your early to mid-40s. For some women it starts earlier, even in the mid to late 30s, while others do not start until their 50s. If your periods stop before age 40, please see us, as this may be premature ovarian insufficiency and needs assessment.

What changes should I expect?

At first, you may notice changes in your periods. They may become more frequent, less frequent, heavier or lighter until they stop completely. As oestrogen levels continue to fall and your hormone balance shifts, you may experience:

Hot flushes and night sweats
Mood swings
Dryness and thinning of the vaginal tissue, which can make sex uncomfortable
Difficulty concentrating
Trouble sleeping
Low mood or depression
Urinary symptoms, such as needing to pass urine more often

Not every woman has significant symptoms. Some symptoms blamed on menopause may also be caused by other things, such as a thyroid disorder, stress, changes in life circumstances or the ageing process. That is another good reason to talk to us.

Your long-term health

Lower oestrogen after menopause can affect your bones and heart. Your doctor can advise on bone health, blood pressure, cholesterol, healthy eating, exercise and the screening tests that are right for you, including Pap smears and breast checks.

How can we help?

See us as soon as you notice symptoms, or any time you would like to know what to expect during perimenopause and after menopause. Many effective treatments can reduce, and even eliminate, menopausal symptoms. Depending on your needs, your doctor may:

Prescribe menopausal hormone therapy, if it is suitable and safe for you
Offer non-hormonal medicines for hot flushes, sleep or mood
Recommend vaginal treatments for dryness and discomfort
Advise on lifestyle changes, including exercise, diet, sleep, and cutting back on alcohol, caffeine and smoking
Suggest tests to find out whether another condition is causing or adding to your symptoms

Hormone therapy suits many women, but not everyone. We will talk through the benefits and risks with you, based on your age, health and family history.

Common questions

Is menopause a disease?

No. It is a natural stage of life. Treatment is for relieving symptoms and protecting your long-term health, not for curing menopause.

How long do symptoms last?

It varies. Hot flushes often last several years, and vaginal symptoms may continue or worsen without treatment.

Can I still get pregnant during perimenopause?

Yes. Pregnancy is less likely but still possible until you have gone 12 months without a period. Ask us about contraception.

Is bleeding after menopause normal?

No. Please see us promptly for any bleeding after menopause, even if it is light or happens only once.