Home / Diseases & Conditions / Menopause
Menopause
Menopause is the natural, permanent end of menstrual periods. It is diagnosed when a person has not had a period for 12 consecutive months, and it usually occurs between the ages of 45 and 55.
Menopause happens because the ovaries stop releasing eggs and produce much less oestrogen and progesterone.
This is a normal part of ageing, but it can bring a wide range of symptoms that may affect quality of life.
Menopause can also happen for other reasons including:
Surgical removal of the ovaries (oophorectomy)
Cancer treatments such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy, or hormone therapies
Medical conditions affecting the ovaries
In these cases, menopause may occur suddenly and symptoms can sometimes be more intense.
Fertility & Menopause
Once menopause is reached, natural fertility ends, as the ovaries no longer release eggs. For younger women who experience early or treatment-induced menopause, this change can feel particularly challenging.
If you are approaching treatments that may cause menopause (such as chemotherapy or ovarian surgery), your healthcare team may discuss options such as:
Egg or embryo freezing before treatment
Ovarian tissue freezing (in some centres)
Donor eggs or embryos as future options for pregnancy
Surrogacy or adoption as alternative paths to parenthood
These discussions are highly individual and should take place before treatment whenever possible. Talking to a gynaecologist with particular expertise in fertility can be helpful.
How is Menopause Diagnosed?
Diagnosis is usually based on age, menstrual history, and symptoms. Tests are rarely needed but may include:
Blood tests – to measure hormone levels, especially if menopause occurs earlier than expected
Medical history and physical examination – to rule out other causes of symptoms
If you have had your uterus removed (hysterectomy) or menopause is triggered by medical treatment, diagnosis is usually based on symptoms.
Not everyone experiences the same symptoms, but common ones include:
Hot flushes and night sweats
Sleep problems or insomnia
Mood changes, irritability, anxiety, or low mood
Vaginal dryness, discomfort, or pain during sex
Reduced libido (sex drive)
Weight gain, especially around the waist
Joint or muscle aches
Memory and concentration problems (“brain fog”)
Fatigue or low energy
Thinning hair and dry skin
Long-term changes after menopause can include:
Loss of bone density (osteoporosis), increasing fracture risk
Higher risk of heart disease
Menopause Treatment
Menopause is a natural stage of life, but support and treatments can improve symptoms and protect long-term health. The right plan will depend on your symptoms, medical history, and whether menopause occurred naturally or due to medical treatment.
Menopause is a normal life stage, but it can also result from medical treatments. In these cases, symptoms may appear suddenly and fertility is also affected.
There are safe and effective treatment options available. Your specialist gynaecologist will work with you to find the support and management plan that best fits your situation.
You do not need to face menopause alone. With the right support, you can maintain your wellbeing and protect your long-term health.
Medications
Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT): replaces oestrogen (and sometimes progesterone) to reduce symptoms and support bone health.
Vaginal oestrogen creams, rings, or tablets: effective for vaginal dryness and discomfort.
Non-hormonal medicines: certain antidepressants, blood pressure medicines, or epilepsy medicines can help with hot flushes, sweats, and mood symptoms.
Lifestyle Approaches
Regular physical activity, including strength and weight-bearing exercise can help protect bone health
A healthy diet rich in calcium, vitamin D, and protein
Reducing caffeine, alcohol, and avoiding smoking
Stress management (mindfulness, yoga, relaxation techniques)
Good sleep habits to improve rest and energy
Find A Specialist
-
Dr Kate van Harselaar
Gynaecologist
