What should you know about life after menopause?

Menopause is reached after periods have stopped for a sustained time because ovarian hormone production has changed. Hot flushes, night sweats and mood changes may improve, persist or return later. Vaginal dryness can cause burning, discomfort with sex and urinary symptoms because vaginal and urinary tissues may become thinner and less well lubricated. These symptoms are common presentations of menopause, but new or troublesome symptoms still deserve assessment.

Life after menopause is not one fixed stage. Sleep, sexual wellbeing, movement, nutrition, bone health, blood pressure and emotional health may all need attention. A feeling of pressure or a bulge in the vagina can have another explanation, such as pelvic organ prolapse, and should be examined rather than self-diagnosed.

Keep a record of symptoms, triggers, medicines and any bleeding. Gentle activity that challenges muscles and balance, adequate dietary calcium and vitamin D, stopping smoking and moderating alcohol can support general health; your clinician can tailor advice to your medical history. Vaginal moisturisers or lubricants may help dryness, while prescribed local or systemic hormone treatment may suit some people and not others.

Book routine healthcare appointments and discuss screening, cardiovascular risks, bone health and sexual or urinary symptoms. Report any bleeding after menopause, even if it is light or happens once. Treatment choices should account for your uterus, previous cancers, clotting history, migraines, liver disease and other medicines.

Arrange prompt review for bleeding after menopause, a new breast or pelvic symptom, persistent pelvic pain, unexplained weight change, or urinary symptoms with fever or pain. Seek urgent help for severe chest pain, sudden breathlessness, fainting, one-sided weakness or a severe new headache. A clinician can separate expected menopausal symptoms from problems needing another treatment.

Could my symptoms be caused by vaginal dryness or another condition? Which treatment options fit my health history? Do I need bone-health or cardiovascular assessment? What should I do if bleeding occurs? Could pelvic floor treatment help pressure, bladder or sexual symptoms?