Menopause is a natural stage of life that happens when your periods stop because your hormone levels change. It usually affects women and people assigned female at birth between the ages of 45 and 55, although it can happen earlier.
Menopause affects everyone differently. Some people have few symptoms, while others find that symptoms affect their daily life, relationships, work or wellbeing.
Support and treatment are available, and you do not have to manage symptoms alone.
Understanding the changes
Menopause is reached when you have not had a period for 12 consecutive months and are not pregnant or experiencing another medical condition that affects your periods.
The time leading up to menopause is called perimenopause. During perimenopause, hormone levels begin to change and you may start to experience symptoms even though you are still having periods.
Perimenopause can last for several months or several years.
Common symptoms
Menopause symptoms can vary from person to person.
Common symptoms include:
- hot flushes
- night sweats
- difficulty sleeping
- low mood or anxiety
- mood changes
- problems with memory or concentration
- headaches
- joint aches and pains
- vaginal dryness
- reduced sex drive
- irregular periods
Symptoms can be mild, moderate or severe and may change over time.
When periods stop early
Early menopause or perimenopause is when menopause happens before the age of 45.
Some people experience premature menopause before the age of 40. This is sometimes known as premature ovarian insufficiency (POI).
Early menopause can happen naturally or as a result of medical treatment, surgery or other health conditions.
If your periods stop unexpectedly before the age of 45, speak to your GP practice.
Getting help and support
If menopause symptoms are affecting your daily life, work, sleep or wellbeing, support is available.
Your GP or another healthcare professional can discuss your symptoms and recommend treatments that may help.
They can also rule out other conditions that may be causing similar symptoms.
You do not need to wait until your periods have stopped completely before seeking advice.
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
Hormone replacement therapy, often called HRT, is a treatment used to help manage menopause symptoms.
HRT works by replacing some of the hormones that decrease during menopause.
Many people find that HRT helps improve symptoms such as hot flushes, night sweats, sleep problems and mood changes.
Like all treatments, HRT has benefits and risks. Your healthcare professional can help you decide whether it is suitable for you.
Help with prescription costs
Many menopause treatments are available on prescription.
If you regularly use hormone replacement therapy (HRT), you may be able to save money through an HRT Prescription Prepayment Certificate (HRT PPC).
The HRT PPC covers eligible HRT medicines for 12 months for a single annual payment. It can be a more cost-effective option than paying for individual prescription charges throughout the year.
Not all HRT medicines are covered by the scheme, and some people may already qualify for free NHS prescriptions for other reasons.
Find out more about the HRT Prescription Prepayment Certificate (opens in a new tab).
Looking after your health
There are several things you can do to support your health and wellbeing during menopause:
- stay physically active
- eat a balanced diet
- maintain a healthy weight
- stop smoking if you smoke
- reduce alcohol intake
- prioritise sleep and rest
- look after your mental wellbeing
These steps can help improve overall health and may reduce some menopause symptoms.
For trusted information about menopause and perimenopause, visit the NHS website (opens in a new tab).