Menopause
Overview
Find out about menopause symptoms, causes and treatments, and things you can do to help.
Symptoms
Period stops; hot flushes; night sweats; mood changes; brain fog; vaginal dryness; sleep problems. Avg age 51.
Causes
Natural drop in hormone levels (oestrogen) as ovaries stop producing eggs.
Treatment
HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy - gel/patches/tablets). Vaginal oestrogen. CBT for mood. Lifestyle changes.
Prevention
Healthy diet (calcium/Vit D for bones); exercise (weight-bearing); reduce alcohol/caffeine/spicy food.
When to see a doctor
See GP if: symptoms affect quality of life. Bleeding after menopause (PMB) requires urgent check.