07/05/2025
Menopause is the time in a woman’s life when her periods stop as a result of the reduction and loss of ‘ovarian reproductive function’.
Ovaries produce the hormones oestrogen, progesterone
and testosterone. When a woman approaches the menopause, less oestrogen is produced causing her body to behave differently. This process is usually a gradual one that progresses over several years. Oestrogen also plays an important role in maintaining bone and heart health as well as brain function during the reproductive years.
The menopause usually occurs between 45 and 55 years of age. The average age in the UK is 51. It is defined as when a woman has had no periods for one year or more. Before then a woman will experience ‘early peri-menopause’ and ‘late peri-menopause’.
The most common symptoms are hot flushes and night sweats, experienced by 70-80% of women. Other symptoms include disturbed sleep and insomnia, low energy levels, low mood, anxiety, low libido and low sexual drive, impaired memory and concentration, a sensation of ‘brain fog’, joint aches, headaches, palpitations and vaginal dryness and urinary symptoms.
If you would like to discuss the menopause please contact us to arrange an appointment with a GP.
Dr Gall is our menopause champion and ensures the practice is up to date with the latest guidance and advice
Useful and trusted links:
https://www.imsociety.org/for-women/
https://www.menopausematters.co.uk/
https://www.daisynetwork.org/
