What should you know about first symptoms of menopause?

Menopause describes the time when menstrual periods have ended; symptoms often appear during a preceding transition. Some people notice cycle changes first, while others notice flushes, disturbed sleep, vaginal dryness, reduced sexual desire, or emotional changes. Symptoms can come and go and do not all occur together.

These symptoms may have other explanations, including pregnancy, thyroid disorders, medication effects, stress, or anaemia. A clinician may use your age, cycle history, symptoms, and health history to decide whether tests or another evaluation are appropriate.

Write down period dates, flow changes, flushes, night sweats, sleep quality, mood, and vaginal symptoms. Note triggers such as heat, alcohol, spicy food, or stress if they seem relevant. Light clothing, a cool sleeping space, regular activity, and a consistent sleep routine may improve comfort. Lubricants or vaginal moisturisers can help dryness; seek professional advice if discomfort persists.

If symptoms affect work, relationships, concentration, or rest, arrange a consultation. Discuss lifestyle measures, hormone and non-hormone treatments, and contraception according to your circumstances.

Seek assessment for bleeding after menopause, very heavy bleeding, bleeding between periods, or symptoms that are sudden, severe, or progressively worsening. Get urgent help for fainting, severe pelvic pain, chest pain, or sudden breathlessness. Symptoms beginning unusually early also deserve a clinical review so that treatable causes are not missed.

Could these symptoms have another cause? Do I need tests? Which treatment options fit my health history? How can I manage vaginal symptoms? Do I need contraception while my periods are changing?