Symptoms of Menopause: What to Expect and When
Symptoms of Menopause: What to Expect and When
Menopause is a natural stage of life, but that doesn’t mean it’s always easy. For many women, the transition through perimenopause, menopause and postmenopause comes with a wide range of physical, emotional and hormonal symptoms — some expected, others surprising.
If you’re experiencing menopausal symptoms, you’re not alone, and you don’t have to simply “put up with it”. Symptoms can often be managed with the right support, information and care.
In this guide, we’ll explain the most common symptoms of menopause, why they happen, when menopause typically starts, and what you can do to feel more like yourself again.
The Most Common Symptoms Of The Menopause
Menopause symptoms vary hugely from woman to woman. Some experience only mild changes, while others find symptoms disruptive to daily life. This list isn’t exhaustive, but it covers the most common menopause and perimenopause symptoms, grouped to make them easier to recognise.
Vasomotor Symptoms
These are some of the most well-known signs of menopause and are linked to changes in temperature regulation.
- Hot flushes – sudden feelings of heat, often affecting the face, neck and chest
- Night sweats – hot flushes that occur during sleep and may disrupt rest
- Sudden chills – temperature fluctuations that can follow sweating
Sleep and Energy Symptoms
Hormonal changes can significantly affect sleep quality and energy levels.
- Insomnia – difficulty falling or staying asleep
- Fatigue and low energy – feeling drained even after rest
Mood and Mind
Menopause symptoms don’t just affect the body — many women notice changes in emotional wellbeing and cognitive function.
- Mood swings
- Anxiety and irritability
- Memory lapses and brain fog – difficulty concentrating or recalling information
Sexual and Vaginal Health
Declining oestrogen levels can affect vaginal tissues and sexual comfort.
- Vaginal dryness
- Pain or discomfort during sex
- Loss of libido
- Period changes
Changes to your menstrual cycle are often one of the earliest signs of perimenopause.
- Irregular periods
- Heavier or lighter flow
- Spotting between periods
Body Changes
Menopause can bring broader physical changes that feel unfamiliar or frustrating.
- Weight gain, particularly around the abdomen
- Joint pain and stiffness
- Dry skin and thinning hair
Why These Symptoms Happen: Hormones and Menopause
Most menopause symptoms are caused by changes in hormone levels — particularly oestrogen, progesterone and testosterone.
As you approach menopause, your ovaries gradually produce less oestrogen. This hormone plays a role in temperature regulation, bone health, vaginal lubrication, mood and sleep. Fluctuating oestrogen levels are closely linked to hot flushes, night sweats and vaginal dryness.
Progesterone also declines during perimenopause, contributing to irregular periods and sleep disturbances. Testosterone, although present in smaller amounts, influences energy, mood and libido — its decline may affect motivation and sexual desire.
These hormonal shifts don’t happen overnight, which is why symptoms can start years before menopause itself and change over time.
When Does The Menopause Start and How Long Does It Last?
Menopause isn’t a single moment — it’s a process.
- Perimenopause usually begins in your 40s, though it can start earlier. This is when hormone levels fluctuate and symptoms often begin.
- Menopause is reached once you’ve gone 12 consecutive months without a period. The average age in the UK is around 51.
- Postmenopause refers to the years after menopause, when symptoms may ease but some changes remain.
Menopause symptoms can last anywhere from a few years to over a decade. Some women experience early or premature menopause, including surgical menopause, where symptoms may begin suddenly following the removal of ovaries.
How To Feel Like Yourself Again – Managing Menopause Symptoms
There’s no single solution that works for everyone. Managing menopause symptoms often involves a combination of medical support, lifestyle changes and targeted self-care.
Medical Support
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) replaces declining hormones and can be highly effective for symptoms such as hot flushes, night sweats and vaginal dryness. HRT isn’t suitable for everyone, so it’s important to discuss options with your GP.
Other treatments, such as vaginal oestrogen or non-hormonal medications, may also be recommended depending on your symptoms.
Lifestyle and Natural Strategies
Healthy habits can help support your body during menopause, although they may not eliminate symptoms entirely.
- Diet and hydration – balanced meals and drinking enough water can support energy and digestion
- Exercise – walking and strength training support bone, muscle and mental health
- Reducing stress – relaxation techniques and rest can help stabilise mood
Pelvic Floor Health
Hormonal changes during menopause can weaken pelvic floor muscles, contributing to symptoms such as bladder leaks, prolapse or discomfort.
Strengthening your pelvic floor can improve bladder control, sexual comfort and core stability. Pelvic floor exercises and clinically designed devices may help support long-term pelvic health.
Helpful Reads:
When You Should See A Doctor
While menopause symptoms are common, some signs should always be checked by a medical professional.
Speak to your GP if you experience:
- Bleeding after menopause
- Very heavy or unpredictable bleeding
- Severe anxiety or depression
- Symptoms that significantly affect your quality of life
Support is available, and you don’t need to struggle in silence.
The Menopause Doesn’t Have To Be The End — It Can Be A New Beginning
Menopause marks a major life transition, but it doesn’t have to define or limit you. With the right information, support and care, many women find new confidence, strength and balance in this stage of life.
Understanding what’s happening in your body is the first step towards feeling like yourself again — and knowing that you’re not alone can make all the difference.
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