Harmony menopause: what to know

Menopause is the stage when menstrual periods stop because ovarian hormone activity changes. The transition can bring hot flushes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, sleep disruption, mood changes, or reduced sexual desire. Symptoms can vary in type and intensity, and a new symptom is not automatically caused by menopause. Pelvic pressure, a bulge, or difficulty emptying the bladder may point to pelvic organ prolapse and needs a separate assessment.

Keep a short record of bleeding, flushes, sleep, mood, vaginal symptoms, and medicines. A clinician can review your health history, contraception needs, bone and heart risk factors, and whether hormone or non-hormone options fit. Lubricants or moisturisers may help vaginal dryness, while layered clothing, a cool room, regular movement, and sleep routines can make symptoms easier to manage. Choose treatment with a qualified professional rather than relying on a product label alone.

Arrange medical review for bleeding after periods have stopped, bleeding that is unusually heavy or persistent, a new breast or pelvic symptom, or symptoms that disrupt sleep, work, or relationships. Seek urgent care for severe chest pain, sudden breathlessness, one-sided weakness, fainting, or severe abdominal pain. A clinician can distinguish menopause-related changes from conditions needing another treatment.

Ask whether your symptoms fit perimenopause or menopause, what alternatives should be considered, which treatments suit your history, and how unexpected bleeding will be investigated.