What are the symptoms of menopause?

As ovarian hormone levels change, periods may become irregular before they stop. You may feel a sudden wave of heat, sweat at night or notice palpitations. Sleep disruption can leave you tired during the day, while mood changes may include irritability, anxiety or feeling low.

Some people notice difficulty concentrating or finding words. Vaginal and urinary changes can include dryness, burning, discomfort during sex, urgency or recurrent infections. Low sex drive may reflect hormonal changes, poor sleep, mood, pain or several factors together. Symptoms vary widely and can come and go.

Keep a brief symptom diary covering bleeding, sleep, temperature changes, mood and vaginal or urinary discomfort. Regular movement, breathable clothing and a cool bedroom may reduce practical discomfort. A clinician can discuss hormone and non-hormone options, including Vaginal Oestrogen Therapy for local vaginal symptoms.

Speak with a clinician when symptoms disturb sleep, work, relationships or daily activities. Seek prompt help for very heavy bleeding, bleeding after menopause, chest pain, fainting, severe breathlessness or thoughts of self-harm. New symptoms should not automatically be attributed to menopause.

Which symptoms fit menopause, and which need another check? What treatment options match my health history? How can I manage vaginal or urinary symptoms safely?