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Menopause and perimenopause

Also called Menopause, Perimenopause, or The change

Menopause is when periods stop because of lower hormone levels. It usually happens between the ages of 45 and 55, and you have reached menopause when you have not had a period for 12 months. Perimenopause is the time leading up to it, when hormone levels change and symptoms often start, sometimes years before periods stop.

Last updated Nov 9, 2026

What it is

Symptoms can affect physical and mental health and daily life. Lower oestrogen also increases the risk of osteoporosis and heart disease.

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT), non-hormonal medicines, vaginal oestrogen, CBT and lifestyle changes can help.

Common signs

  • Changes to periods
  • Hot flushes and night sweats
  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Low mood, anxiety or brain fog
  • Vaginal dryness
  • Joint aches

How it is usually diagnosed

  • Usually based on age and symptoms
  • Blood tests, sometimes, if under 45

Records worth keeping

Keeping these together makes each appointment easier, especially when you see a new doctor:

  • A symptom and period diary
  • HRT prescriptions and reviews
  • Bone density results
  • Cervical and breast screening results

Questions to ask your doctor

  • Is HRT right for me?
  • What are the risks and benefits of HRT for me?
  • What can I do to protect my bones and heart?

When to get help right away

Call 112 or go to the nearest emergency department if you have:

  • Bleeding after the menopause, or a painful swollen leg or sudden breathlessness while on HRT: get it checked promptly, or call 112 for breathlessness

This page is general information. It is not a diagnosis and does not replace a doctor who knows your history. Medfold keeps your records organised; it does not interpret them.

Sources

Related conditions

Early menopauseWhen periods stop before the age of 45. Before 40 it is called premature ovarian insufficiency and usually needs hormone treatment.OsteoporosisA condition that weakens bones so they break more easily. It is often found after a fracture or on a bone density scan.Heavy periodsPeriods with so much bleeding that they affect daily life. They are common and treatment can help.