What is Menopause? A Practical Guide for Women Navigating Hormonal Change

Menopause is the point when a woman permanently stops having periods due to the natural decline in reproductive hormones. It typically occurs between ages 45 and 55, but symptoms can begin several years earlier during perimenopause. This change affects more than just your cycle—it influences sleep, mood, metabolism, skin, and mental clarity.

Key Takeaways

• Menopause marks the end of menstrual cycles and natural fertility

• It is diagnosed after 12 consecutive months without a period

• Perimenopause can start in the 40s and include significant symptoms

• Symptoms range from hot flushes and sleep disruption to mood swings and fatigue

• Natural treatment options are available to support the transition

Understanding Menopause

Menopause is a biological process, not a medical condition. It marks the end of ovulation and the body’s ability to conceive naturally. Oestrogen and progesterone levels drop, which triggers a wide range of physical and emotional changes. Some women sail through with minimal symptoms. Others experience years of disruption. No two experiences are the same.

What Triggers Menopause

The main trigger is age-related hormonal decline. The ovaries stop releasing eggs and produce much less oestrogen and progesterone. This hormonal shift affects multiple body systems. Menopause can also be induced suddenly due to surgery (removal of ovaries), chemotherapy, or radiation therapy.

The Three Stages: Perimenopause, Menopause and Post-Menopause

• Perimenopause – The lead-up phase where hormone levels fluctuate and symptoms appear

• Menopause – Defined as 12 consecutive months without menstruation

• Post-menopause – The years that follow menopause, where symptoms may ease or evolve

Common Symptoms of Menopause

These symptoms vary by woman, but the most common include:

• Hot flushes and night sweats

• Irregular periods or heavier bleeding in perimenopause

• Difficulty sleeping and staying asleep

• Mood changes, irritability, or low motivation

• Brain fog, forgetfulness, and trouble concentrating

• Fatigue or low energy

• Vaginal dryness or discomfort during intimacy

• Joint pain and stiffness

• Weight gain, especially around the middle

• Thinning hair or dry, ageing skin

How Long Symptoms Last

Perimenopause can last 4–8 years. Most women reach menopause between 45 and 55. Symptoms may continue for months or years into post-menopause, but usually reduce in intensity. Some women notice residual effects for a decade or more, especially if left untreated.

How Menopause is Diagnosed

Menopause is a clinical diagnosis—blood tests are not required if your periods have stopped for 12 months and you’re over 45. However, testing can be useful if:

• You’re under 45 with irregular periods

• You’re experiencing symptoms but still menstruating

• There are concerns about thyroid, iron, or other hormonal conditions

• You’re considering treatment and want baseline hormone data

How Menopause Affects Your Body Long-Term

Low oestrogen affects more than fertility. Long-term effects can include:

• Lower bone density (increased risk of osteoporosis)

• Changes in cardiovascular health

• Reduced muscle mass and slower metabolism

• Changes in cholesterol levels

• Skin thinning and vaginal atrophy

• Cognitive changes or brain ageing

Natural Management of Menopause

Many women seek natural support to avoid or complement Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT). A qualified Naturopath can assist by:

• Using herbal medicine to reduce hot flushes and improve sleep

• Supporting oestrogen metabolism through gut and liver function

• Addressing mood changes with adaptogenic and nervine herbs

• Recommending nutrient support for bones, brain, and hormones

• Advising on diet, movement, and stress strategies that make a difference

Medical Treatments

Medical support may include:

• HRT (combined oestrogen and progesterone)

• Antidepressants for mood and sleep

• Vaginal oestrogen for dryness

• Bone density medication if osteoporosis is diagnosed

Choosing between natural and pharmaceutical support is personal. In many cases, the two approaches work well together.

When to Seek Help

You don’t need to suffer through menopause alone. If symptoms are interfering with your sleep, work, relationships, or confidence—speak to someone.

Whether it’s your GP, gynaecologist, or a Naturopath, there are ways to ease the transition and restore your quality of life.

Conclusion

Menopause is a normal stage of life, but that doesn’t mean it’s easy. Understanding what’s happening in your body gives you options—real ones—for managing symptoms and regaining control.

Whether you’re just starting perimenopause or are deep into post-menopause, it’s never too late to take care of your hormones, mind and body, and get relief from symptoms you may be suffering.

FAQs

1. What is menopause and when does it happen?

Menopause is the natural end of menstruation, usually occurring between 45 and 55, after 12 months without a period. It’s caused by a drop in reproductive hormones.

2. What are the early signs of menopause?

Early signs can include irregular cycles, night sweats, mood swings, brain fog, and difficulty sleeping during perimenopause in your 40s.

3. How do I know if I’m in perimenopause or menopause?

Perimenopause involves fluctuating hormones and ongoing periods. Menopause is diagnosed once you’ve gone 12 consecutive months without one.

4. What treatments are available for menopause symptoms?

Options include HRT, antidepressants, herbal medicine, nutritional supplements, and lifestyle strategies depending on your symptoms and preferences.

5. Can menopause cause anxiety or depression?

Yes—hormonal changes can affect neurotransmitters, leading to anxiety, low mood, and emotional sensitivity, especially if unmanaged.

6. How long do menopause symptoms last?

Symptoms often begin in perimenopause and can last several years. Some persist into post-menopause but typically lessen over time.

7. What natural options help with menopause symptoms?

Herbal medicine, nutritional support, and gut and liver detoxification are used to balance hormones, reduce flushes, and support energy and mood.