What is Menopause?

Menopause is a natural process that all women experience, and it can significantly affect their quality of life.

It occurs when the ovaries stop producing eggs, leading to a decline in hormone levels.

There are 4 stages:

• Premenopause is the stage before menopause, typically starting in a woman's 30s or 40s. During this phase, hormone levels may fluctuate, and menstrual cycles remain regular.
• Perimenopause is the transitional phase leading up to menopause. It usually begins in a woman's 40s, but can start earlier for some. Hormone production becomes more irregular, resulting in changes in menstrual patterns and the onset of menopausal symptoms.
• Menopause is defined as the point when a woman has not had a menstrual period for 12 consecutive months. It marks the end of the reproductive years, usually occurring between the ages of 45 and 55 with the average age in the UK being 51 years. Menopause prior to the age of 40 is defined as premature ovarian insufficiency. Oestrogen and progesterone levels decline significantly during this time, leading to various physical and emotional changes.
• Post menopause refers to the period after menopause has been reached. It encompasses the years following menopause throughout a woman's life. During this stage, menopausal symptoms may gradually lessen, but it's important to note that some symptoms can persist. Additionally, the decreased oestrogen levels may contribute to long-term health concerns such as osteoporosis and heart disease.

Menopause Symptoms

Symptoms of menopause can vary from woman to woman. Some may experience symptoms for only a few months, while others may endure them for many years. Around one in four women have no symptoms.

The first sign of menopause transition is usually a change in the normal pattern of your periods. They can become lighter or heavier with a change in frequency, until eventually the period stops altogether.

Common symptoms include changes in the normal pattern of periods, hot flushes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, reduced libido, joint pains, difficulty sleeping, and mood changes.

But there can be some unusual ones such as ringing in the ears or feelings of crawling on your skin. If you are unsure we recommend completing our LGP Menopause Symptom checker which can be sent to you so you can bring this to consult with our specialists to better understand and manage these symptoms.

If you are concerned that you may be suffering from Menopause symptoms and would like to make an appointment with one of our Menopause specialists please get in touch here.

Contact Our Menopause Clinic

For more information on the treatment options available and to schedule a consultation, please contact our Menopause Clinic.

Our dedicated team of specialists is here to provide you with the support and guidance you need during this transformative phase of life.

Our dedicated team at our Central London Menopause Clinic takes the time to listen to your concerns, discuss your symptoms, and perform a thorough risk assessment.

Medical Intervention
Based on the latest evidence, we offer individualised treatment plans that may include Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) options (including testosterone therapy) if suitable. HRT has been shown to alleviate menopausal symptoms, improve quality of life and reduce associated health risks. HRT is also recommended for women who have gone through an early menopause and should take it until around the time of natural menopause. We also provide non-hormonal treatments tailored to your needs. We offer evidence-based advice and treatment in line with guidance from the British Menopause Society and NICE (National Institute of Clinical Excellence).

Lifestyle Approach
Beyond medical interventions, we emphasise a holistic approach to women's health. Our comprehensive service addresses lifestyle factors such as nutrition, exercise, well-being, and sleep. By empowering you to take charge of your overall health, we aim to reduce the risk of chronic diseases, improve your quality of life, and enhance long-term well-being. We collaborate closely with other specialists to ensure a comprehensive and personalised approach.

Long-Term Support
By addressing menopause holistically, we prioritise your long-term health. We offer regular health check-ups, continuous monitoring, and personalised follow-up plans to maintain optimal health and minimise the risk of future health complications.