What is menopause?

What menopause brings

It usually happens between 45 and 55. Symptoms can start years before and often last 7 to 9 years or longer:

• hot flushes and night sweats
• poor sleep and brain fog
• mood changes and joint pain
• vaginal dryness and more urine infections
• weight gain around the stomach

Lower oestrogen also weakens bones, raising your risk of osteoporosis, so this is a good time to look after your bones and heart.

Any bleeding after menopause needs a check with your doctor.

What helps through menopause

Eat calcium-rich foods every day, keep protein in each meal, and choose whole grains, dal, vegetables and fruit over fried snacks and sweets.

Day to day:

• Do strength and weight-bearing exercise a few times a week to protect bone and muscle.
• Keep a regular sleep routine and a cool bedroom.

These can trigger hot flushes in some women, so notice your own triggers:

• spicy food
• hot drinks
• caffeine
• alcohol

If symptoms are hard to manage, ask your doctor about treatment options.