Climacteric and menopause explained

Hormone levels can fluctuate during this transition. Periods may become irregular before stopping, and symptoms can include hot flushes, night sweats, sleep disturbance, mood changes, vaginal dryness and changes in sexual desire. Experiences vary considerably.

Climacteric describes the period in which reproductive hormone activity changes and the body moves from the reproductive years into the postmenopausal stage. Perimenopause refers to the part of that transition leading up to menopause and the time soon afterward.

Menopause is identified retrospectively after menstrual periods have remained absent for the expected clinical interval and there is no other explanation. Surgery that removes both ovaries and some medical treatments can bring it on abruptly, so the pattern is not always gradual.

Keep a record of bleeding patterns, sleep, flushes and mood if symptoms are affecting daily life. Lightweight layers, a cool sleeping space and limiting personal triggers may ease temperature symptoms. Vaginal moisturisers can support ongoing comfort, while lubricants can reduce friction during sex.

A clinician can discuss hormonal and non-hormonal treatment according to your symptoms, medical history, medicines and preferences. Contraception may still be needed during the transition because irregular periods do not confirm that pregnancy is no longer possible.

Arrange medical review for bleeding after menopause, bleeding after sex, very heavy bleeding, persistent pelvic pain, a new pelvic pressure or bulge, or vaginal symptoms that do not improve. These features can have causes unrelated to the menopausal transition.

Seek urgent help for chest pain, severe shortness of breath, sudden weakness, or thoughts of harming yourself. Prompt support is also warranted when low mood, anxiety or sleep loss is making normal activities hard to manage.

Ask whether another condition or medicine could explain your symptoms, what treatment choices suit your health history, how contraception applies to you, and whether any bleeding pattern requires examination or testing.