What should you know about vitamins to help with menopause?

Menopause involves changes in ovarian hormone production and may bring hot flushes, night sweats, sleep disruption, vaginal dryness, mood changes and altered periods. These symptoms do not automatically mean that a vitamin deficiency is present.

Vitamin D and calcium are relevant to bone health, while a varied diet supplies many other nutrients. A supplement is most appropriate when diet, a medical condition, a medicine or testing indicates a need. More is not necessarily better: excess doses can damage organs or interfere with treatment.

Tell a clinician about your symptoms, diet, medical history and every supplement you take. Ask whether a diet review or testing is useful before buying a high-dose product. Avoid stacking a multivitamin with separate products that repeat the same nutrient.

For symptoms such as hot flushes or vaginal dryness, ask about treatments that address those symptoms directly. Sleep routines, regular movement, strength-building activity, balanced meals and avoiding personal triggers can also support daily wellbeing.

Seek medical advice for bleeding after periods have stopped, symptoms that suddenly worsen, or fatigue, palpitations, weight change or mood symptoms that need another explanation. Get urgent help for chest pain, severe breathlessness, sudden weakness or a serious supplement reaction.

Which symptoms are likely to be menopause-related? Do I have a reason to take a vitamin or mineral? Could my medicines or health conditions change the safe dose? What treatment is available for the symptom affecting me most?