What to expect

The first sign of the menopause is usually a change in the normal pattern of your periods. You may start having either unusually light or heavy periods. The frequency of your periods may also be affected. You may have one every two or three weeks, or you may not have one for months at a time. Eventually you’ll stop having periods altogether.

Symptoms of menopause

Every woman has her own journey as she transitions through to menopause and the symptoms experienced can differ. Although it’s common to refer to menopause symptoms, it’s actually the transition phase called the perimenopause that causes the majority of symptoms women experience.

You may experience none, some or all of the following symptoms:

Hot flashes: short, sudden feelings of heat, usually in the face, neck and chest
Night sweats: hot flashes that occur at night
Difficulty sleeping: making you feel tired and irritable during the day
Reduced libido
Problems with memory and concentration

Vaginal dryness and pain
Headaches
Mood changes, including low mood and anxiety
Palpitations: heartbeats that suddenly become more noticeable
Joint stiffness, aches and pains
Reduced muscle mass
Recurrent UTIs (urinary tract infections)

Menopause can also increase your risk of developing certain other problems, such as weak bones (osteoporosis) or heart disease.

Did you know?

About 75 per cent of women experience hot flashes during menopause, making them the most common symptom. Hot flashes can occur during the day or at night.

Hot flashes and night sweats

If you experience hot flashes and night sweats, simple measures can sometimes help such as:

Wearing loose, light clothing made from natural materials

Keeping your bedroom cool at night

Wearing a sleep mask and using a relaxing sleep balm

Taking a cold shower

Using a fan at home or work

Drinking plenty of cool liquids

Trying to reduce your stress levels

Avoiding potential triggers, such as spicy food, caffeine, smoking and alcohol

Taking regular exercise and losing weight if you are overweight

Menopause and your health

Changes in your body in the years around menopause may raise your risk for certain health problems. Low levels of estrogen and other changes related to aging (like gaining weight) can raise your risk of heart disease, stroke, and osteoporosis. That’s because estrogen plays a significant role in protecting your bones and your heart.

You’re also at an increased risk of urinary tract infections because menopause can cause your urethra to become dry, irritated, or inflamed. Vaginal infections can also occur more frequently because your vagina has become dryer and thinner.

Regular exercise benefits the heart and bones, helps control weight, and can improve your mood.