Menopause day: what to know

Menopause symptoms can vary from morning to evening and from one day to the next. Hot flushes or night sweats may disturb sleep, while vaginal dryness, mood changes, low sex drive, headaches, palpitations or difficulty concentrating can affect work and relationships. Some people have few symptoms; others need help managing several at once.

A symptom diary can show links with poor sleep, alcohol, spicy food, stress, room temperature, medicines or the timing of a period. It can also reveal symptoms that deserve a separate medical assessment rather than being assumed to be menopause.

Keep water, breathable layers and any prescribed treatment available. Build in sleep routines, regular movement and breaks when possible. Discuss persistent symptoms with a clinician: options may include lifestyle measures, non-hormonal medicines, hormone therapy or local treatment, depending on your health and preferences. There is no single plan for every person.

Arrange an appointment if symptoms disrupt sleep, work, sex, mood or daily activities, or if they begin unexpectedly. Seek urgent help for chest pain, severe breathlessness, fainting, new weakness on one side, confusion, or a sudden severe headache. Bleeding after periods have stopped also needs prompt assessment.

Ask which symptoms fit menopause, what alternatives should be checked, which treatment choices suit your medical history, and when improvement should be reviewed.