One a day menopause: what to know

Menopause is the stage when menstrual periods stop because ovarian hormone production changes. Symptoms can include hot flushes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, mood changes, sleep disruption and reduced sexual desire. Some people have few symptoms, while others need help with daily activities or relationships.

A daily plan may include practical measures, vaginal treatments, hormone therapy or a non-hormonal medicine, depending on your situation. A product labelled for daily use is not automatically suitable for you. Supplements can interact with medicines and may not address the symptom that bothers you most.

Write down your main symptoms, their timing and what makes them better or worse. Review your medical history, medicines and personal or family risks with a clinician before starting a hormone product or supplement. Ask how long to try an option, how to use it, and when to review it. Keep a regular routine for sleep, movement, hydration and comfortable clothing, and use a vaginal moisturiser if dryness is an issue.

Arrange prompt assessment for bleeding after periods have stopped, new pelvic pain, a breast change, severe low mood, or symptoms that interfere with sleep and function. Seek urgent help for chest pain, sudden breathlessness, one-sided leg swelling, severe headache or weakness. Do not dismiss new bleeding as a normal menopause symptom.

Ask which symptom needs treatment first, whether hormone therapy is appropriate, what alternatives exist, how risks apply to your history, and what follow-up is needed. If considering a daily supplement, show the full ingredient list and ask about interactions.