Menopause is a natural phase of life, yet it often arrives with confusion, discomfort, and even stigma. Many women feel unprepared for the physical, emotional, and psychological changes that accompany this transition—and many suffer in silence, unsure of where to turn.
At Women’s Health Hub, we believe menopause deserves open discussion, evidence-based care, and compassionate support. In this blog, we explore what menopause is, what symptoms to expect, how it affects your health, and most importantly—how we can help you manage it confidently.
What Is Menopause?
Menopause marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years, defined as the point when menstruation stops for 12 consecutive months. It usually occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, with the average age in Australia being around 51.
Menopause happens because the ovaries gradually stop producing oestrogen and progesterone, the hormones that regulate the menstrual cycle and support fertility. This hormonal shift affects many systems in the body, not just reproduction.
Stages of Menopause
- Perimenopause (Menopausal Transition):
- Begins several years before menopause
- Ovarian hormone levels start to fluctuate
- Periods may become irregular or heavier/lighter
- Symptoms like hot flushes, mood swings, and sleep issues begin
- Can last 4–8 years
- Menopause:
- Confirmed when periods stop for 12 months
- Hormone levels (especially oestrogen) drop significantly
- Postmenopause:
- The years following menopause
- Symptoms may ease but health risks related to lower oestrogen (e.g. osteoporosis, heart disease) increase
Common Symptoms of Menopause
Every woman’s experience is different, but common symptoms include:
- Hot flushes and night sweats
- Mood swings, anxiety, and depression
- Fatigue and poor sleep
- Brain fog or memory lapses
- Low libido and vaginal dryness
- Joint pain or stiffness
- Weight gain and metabolic changes
- Urinary incontinence or urgency
- Changes in skin and hair texture
Some women may breeze through menopause with few symptoms, while others find it severely disruptive to their work, relationships, and mental health.
How Is Menopause Diagnosed?
In most cases, menopause is a clinical diagnosis based on symptoms and age. Blood tests (such as FSH, oestradiol, and AMH) are sometimes used, especially in women under 45 or when the diagnosis is unclear.
At Women’s Health Hub, we offer:
- A comprehensive menopause assessment
- Blood tests and relevant investigations
- Symptom tracking and health screening
- Exclusion of other causes (e.g., thyroid issues, iron deficiency)
Managing Menopause: What Are Your Options?
There’s no “one-size-fits-all” approach. The best management strategy depends on your symptoms, lifestyle, medical history, and personal preferences.
- Hormone Therapy (HRT / MHT)
- The most effective treatment for hot flushes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and mood issues
- Available as pills, patches, gels, or hormonal IUDs
- Has benefits for bone health, sleep, and quality of life
- Safe for most women under 60 (when started within 10 years of menopause)
- Non-Hormonal Treatments
- For women who can’t or choose not to take HRT
- Includes antidepressants (low-dose), gabapentin, or clonidine
- Can relieve hot flushes and mood changes
- Vaginal Oestrogen
- Localised oestrogen (cream, pessary, or ring) helps with dryness, discomfort, and urinary symptoms
- Very low risk and can be used long-term
- Lifestyle Strategies
- Exercise: boosts mood, bone health, and metabolism
- Diet: rich in calcium, Vitamin D, phytoestrogens (e.g. soy, flaxseed)
- Stress management: mindfulness, yoga, counselling
- Sleep hygiene: regular sleep routines, limiting screens/caffeine before bed
Health Risks to Watch For Post-Menopause
With declining oestrogen, women face higher risks of:
- Osteoporosis (weakened bones and fractures)
- Cardiovascular disease (heart attack, stroke)
- Weight gain and metabolic syndrome
- Type 2 diabetes
This makes menopause a crucial window for preventive care, including:
- Bone density scans
- Cholesterol and blood pressure monitoring
- Breast checks and cervical screening
- Support for healthy ageing and sexual wellbeing
Menopause and Mental Health
The hormonal rollercoaster of perimenopause can trigger or worsen:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Irritability
- Panic attacks
- Feelings of overwhelm
At Women’s Health Hub, we take mental health seriously. Our approach includes:
- Screening for anxiety and depression
- Referrals to psychologists and counsellors
- Use of low-dose antidepressants if appropriate
- Lifestyle coaching and stress management techniques
How Women’s Health Hub Can Help You Thrive
We offer evidence-based, compassionate care for every stage of menopause, including:
✅ Holistic menopause assessments
✅ Discussion of treatment options including HRT
✅ Blood tests and health screenings
✅ Access to allied health: dietitians, psychologists, pelvic physios
✅ Referrals to local gynaecologists or menopause specialists
✅ Education resources and follow-up support
✅ Telehealth for convenience and flexibility
Whether you’re just starting perimenopause or well into postmenopause, you don’t have to navigate this journey alone.
Final Thoughts
Menopause is a natural life transition, but that doesn’t mean you have to “just put up with it.” You deserve to feel empowered, informed, and supported every step of the way.
At Women’s Health Hub, we’re here to help you understand your body, manage your symptoms, and embrace this new phase of life with confidence.
💬 Book a menopause consultation with one of our GPs today.