Menopause: symptoms, self-care and when to get help
Checked against current published health guidance — last reviewed 2026-09-23. See how we check.
Menopause is a natural stage marking the end of periods, often causing symptoms like hot flushes, sleep disturbance, and mood changes for months or years around the transition. Support — from lifestyle changes to hormone replacement therapy — can make a real difference, and it's worth discussing options with a GP.
Overview
Menopause is reached when periods have stopped for 12 consecutive months, usually happening naturally between ages 45 and 55. The lead-up, called perimenopause, can bring a wide range of symptoms as hormone levels fluctuate.
Common symptoms include hot flushes, night sweats, mood changes, sleep disturbance, vaginal dryness, and changes in concentration or memory — though experiences vary widely, and some people have very few symptoms.
What may help
- Regular exercise and a balanced diet can help with mood, sleep, and bone health
- Layered clothing and avoiding known triggers (spicy food, alcohol, caffeine) can ease hot flushes for some
- Prioritise sleep hygiene, since night sweats often disrupt sleep
- Connecting with others going through the same transition can help with the emotional side
When to see a pharmacist or GP
- Symptoms are affecting your quality of life, work, or relationships
- You want to discuss hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or other treatment options
- Bleeding after menopause (12+ months without a period) — always worth checking
- Mood changes that feel significant or are affecting daily functioning
When it could be an emergency
- Any vaginal bleeding after you've gone 12 months without a period should be checked by a GP promptly, even though it's usually not serious
- Severe mood changes with thoughts of self-harm need urgent support
If any of these apply, don't wait — call your local emergency number (see emergency numbers by country, or Red Flags in the app), or go straight to your nearest emergency department.
Want more detail, tailored to your own situation?
Look up "Menopause" in the appCommon questions
Is HRT safe?
For most people, the benefits of HRT outweigh the risks, particularly when started around the time of menopause — but it's an individual decision best made with a GP who knows your health history.
How long do menopause symptoms last?
This varies widely — some people have symptoms for a couple of years, others for closer to a decade, and around 1 in 10 experience symptoms for longer.
Can menopause happen earlier than 45?
Yes — early or premature menopause can happen naturally or due to surgery or medical treatment, and is worth discussing with a GP for both symptom management and long-term health considerations.
What is perimenopause?
Perimenopause is the time before periods stop when symptoms start. Periods often become irregular during this stage.
Can menopause affect mood?
Yes. Low mood, anxiety, mood swings and difficulty concentrating are common menopause symptoms, and support and treatment are available.
Official sources
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General information only, last checked 2026-09-23 — not medical advice and not a diagnosis. This page doesn't cover every cause or every person's situation; for anything specific to you or someone in your care, speak to a pharmacist, GP, or other qualified professional. See how we check. Be Health Wise is part of the Be Wise family of apps.