Menopause

You can browse practitioners on this page who help with perimenopause and menopause, including GPs and women's health practitioners. Search by your location, check whether they offer telehealth, and request an appointment. You can also ask your GP whether they have a special interest in menopause.

Usually not. For most people over 45, a GP can diagnose perimenopause or menopause from your age, symptoms and period history. Hormone levels change a lot during perimenopause, so a single blood test is often not helpful. Your GP may still order tests to rule out other causes, such as thyroid problems.

Yes. A GP is usually a good place to start. They can talk through your symptoms, rule out other causes, and discuss treatment options including menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) and non-hormonal options. If your situation is more complex, your GP can refer you to a gynaecologist or endocrinologist.

Perimenopause is the time leading up to menopause, when hormone levels fluctuate and periods become irregular. It can last several years. Menopause is your final menstrual period, and it is confirmed once you have had no period for 12 months. The time after that is called postmenopause.

Yes, menopause is a common and natural stage in a woman’s life. Most women experience menopause between the ages of 45 and 55, though some may enter menopause earlier due to genetics, medical conditions, or treatments that affect the ovaries. Every woman will eventually go through menopause as part of the aging process.

Menopause is caused by the natural decline in the production of reproductive hormones—primarily estrogen and progesterone—by the ovaries. This hormonal shift leads to the cessation of menstrual periods and fertility. Menopause can also be induced by medical treatments, such as surgery to remove the ovaries (oophorectomy), chemotherapy, or radiation therapy.

Common symptoms of menopause include hot flushes, night sweats, mood swings, irritability, difficulty sleeping (insomnia), vaginal dryness, decreased libido, weight gain, thinning hair, and dry skin. Some women may also experience joint pain, headaches, and changes in memory or concentration. The severity and duration of symptoms vary from person to person.

While a menopause specialist offers the most personalised guidance, there are some key lifestyle modifications that many women find helpful:

• Prioritise sleep: Aim for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night. Consider relaxation techniques like meditation or deep breathing before bed.
• Manage stress: Daily stress can exacerbate menopause symptoms. Explore stress-relieving activities like yoga, exercise, or spending time in nature.
• Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight can worsen hot flashes and other symptoms. Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and incorporate regular exercise.
• Limit triggers: Certain foods and beverages like caffeine, alcohol, and spicy dishes can trigger hot flushes. Identify your personal triggers and limit your intake.
• Stay cool: Wear breathable clothing and keep your bedroom cool at night to manage night sweats.

​

Remember, these are general recommendations. For a tailored approach, consulting a qualified menopause specialist is the best course of action.

A menopause specialist offers a comprehensive approach to managing your menopause journey. They can:

• Diagnose and assess your symptoms: Through in-depth consultations and potential lab tests, they'll pinpoint the cause of your specific concerns.
• Develop a personalised treatment plan: This may include lifestyle modifications, dietary adjustments, non-hormonal therapies, or HRT tailored to your unique situation.
• Monitor your progress: Regular follow-up appointments ensure your treatment plan remains effective and addresses any evolving needs.

Book in to see a menopause specialist near me from our practitioners today or learn more from our dedicated menopause resources page.

While some women experience a smooth transition through menopause, others require additional support. Here are some indications that consulting a menopause specialist might be beneficial:

• Severe or disruptive symptoms: If hot flushes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, or sleep disturbances significantly impact your daily life, a specialist can create a personalised treatment plan.
• Concerns about hormone replacement therapy (HRT): A menopause specialist can discuss the risks and benefits of HRT and determine the best approach for your individual needs.
• Complex medical history: If you have pre-existing health conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, or a history of certain cancers, a specialist can personalise your care and ensure safe menopause management.