What should you know about Louise Newson menopause?

Menopause is the stage when menstrual periods stop because ovarian hormone production changes. Symptoms may begin before the final period and can continue afterwards. Hot flushes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, low sex drive, sleep disruption and menopausal mood changes may affect daily life, relationships and work. The pattern differs from person to person, so a consultation should consider symptoms, age, periods, medical history and medicines rather than relying on one symptom alone.

Hormone therapy may help some symptoms, but the suitable type depends on whether a person has a uterus, their bleeding pattern, personal risks and treatment preferences. Vaginal symptoms may need a local treatment, while whole-body symptoms may call for a different discussion. Menopause care can also include bone, cardiovascular, sexual and emotional health.

Keep a brief record of symptoms, bleeding, sleep, mood, headaches and treatments already tried. Ask a qualified clinician to review new symptoms and explain the expected benefits, possible side effects and follow-up plan for any treatment. Do not start, stop or change prescribed hormones without medical advice. Non-hormonal options, lubricants or moisturisers, pelvic-floor support and sleep or cooling measures may also be relevant.

Use a consultation to clarify whether symptoms fit perimenopause or another condition. Pelvic organ prolapse can cause pressure or bulging and deserves separate assessment rather than being assumed to be a menopause symptom.

Arrange medical assessment for bleeding after periods have stopped, bleeding that is unusually heavy or persistent, a new breast change, severe pelvic pain, fainting, chest pain, sudden breathlessness or a severe headache with neurological symptoms. Seek urgent help for heavy bleeding with dizziness or weakness, or for sudden chest or breathing symptoms. Contact a clinician promptly if low mood, anxiety or sleep loss is affecting safety or daily functioning.

Ask which symptoms could be related to menopause, what alternatives should be considered, whether hormone therapy is appropriate for your history, what form and dose may suit you, how bleeding will be monitored, and when treatment should be reviewed. Ask which symptoms need a separate examination and what to do if treatment causes unexpected bleeding or side effects.