For many women, entering menopause is a time filled with uncertainty. Often, this comes from wondering “what are the stages of menopause?” and feeling like you can’t find a clear answer.. You may be experiencing changes in your body and shifts in your mood that leave you feeling a bit overwhelmed or unwell. On top of that, societal stigma and a lack of clear information make it even harder to know where to turn for support.

Luckily, there is help out there! Understanding the stages of menopause and what to expect can help you feel more in control of your body and wellbeing, and allow you to plan accordingly.

In this blog, we’ll debunk the three stages of menopause and what each means for you and your body.

Key Takeaways:
  • The stages of menopause include perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause.
  • Menopause is the stage after perimenopause and happens when you haven’t had a menstrual cycle for 12 consecutive months.
  • Treatment for uncomfortable symptoms can include lifestyle changes, hormone replacement therapy (HRT), and non-hormonal medication.

What is menopause?

Menopause is defined as when your periods have stopped for 12 consecutive months. However, there are multiple stages of menopause, all of which have their own signs and symptoms.

Many women are familiar with the term ‘menopause’ and have some idea of what it may entail. However, many are taken by surprise by just how much it can impact their wellbeing.

What are the three stages of menopause?

Perimenopause: The transition phase

Perimenopause is when your body starts preparing for menopause. It normally starts in your 40s (though it can be earlier or later) and is a transitional phase. During perimenopause, your oestrogen and progesterone levels fluctuate, which can cause a range of symptoms.

  • Perimenopause typically lasts for 4-6 years, but it can vary from as little as a few months to as long as 10 years.
  • Symptoms could include hot flashes, night sweats, low libido, and mood swings.
  • You may experience an irregular menstrual cycle and heavier or lighter bleeding.

Menopause: The official transition

Menopause officially begins when you have not had a menstrual cycle for 12 consecutive months or more. This stage marks the end of your reproductive years, as it is when your ovaries stop releasing eggs. Menopause may occur naturally, or be medically or surgically induced.

  • The average age of menopause is 51, but some women can experience it younger or older.
  • Symptoms can continue from perimenopause and may temporarily intensify, or include new symptoms like weight changes and vaginal dryness.
  • Menopause can impact other parts of your health, like your heart and bones, so taking care of yourself is especially important.

Postmenopause: Life after menopause

Once you have completed menopause, you stay in postmenopause for the rest of your life. By this stage, many women’s menopause symptoms have eased off, but some women do still experience mild symptoms for a few years.

  • Lifestyle changes, such as a healthy diet, exercise, and stress reduction, can help keep you feeling balanced and healthy.
  • Your reduced oestrogen in this stage increases the risk of osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease.
  • Attending your regular health check-ups becomes essential to reducing long-term risks.

What are the symptoms of menopause?

Physical symptoms

Psychological symptoms

The symptoms experienced throughout the stages of menopause vary from woman to woman. Some women go the entire time completely symptom-free, while others really suffer.

Symptoms can be physical or psychological, ranging from hot flashes, disrupted sleep, and vaginal dryness, to mood swings, loss of confidence, and low libido. All of these changes can have a negative impact on how you go about your daily life.

What can I do if I’m struggling with menopause?

If you’re struggling with menopause symptoms, you’re not alone. There are many menopause treatment options available to support you from perimenopause to postmenopause.

Lifestyle strategies

  • Exercise regularly to keep endorphins pumping through your body, which reduces stress and helps with weight management.
  • Prioritise sleep to increase your energy and mood.
  • Maintain a balanced and healthy diet, rich in calcium, protein, and healthy fats.

Medical Options

  • Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can help you manage symptoms, but you should be supported by a menopause specialist.
  • Non-hormonal medications can also be explored to help with sleep, mood, or hot flashes.

Self-care and support

  • Connect with your friends or online support groups. You’ll be surprised by how many women feel similarly to you!
  • Make sure you attend regular check-ups with your GP and consider seeing a menopause specialist for expert support.

Menopause is a natural part of life, but that doesn’t mean it has to be confusing or isolating. By understanding the changes your body is going through, you can feel empowered to seek support from specialists and take extra care of your body. Feeling unsure about your symptoms?

Book a consultation with Dr Anna to get the support you deserve.

Frequently Asked Questions

Menopause is confirmed after you have had 12 consecutive months without a period. Symptoms like hot flashes or mood changes often start years before you reach this point.

A menopause doctor has specialist knowledge about menopause that your family GP will likely lack. A menopause specialist (like Dr Anna Ord) has specific qualifications and training suited to help guide you through menopause. At Hermona, we also provide longer consultation times so you have the space to feel truly heard.

It’s always a good idea to keep track of your menstrual cycle, no matter what phase of life you’re in. Often, when you visit a doctor for the first time to discuss menopause, they’ll ask you to keep a symptom diary, so it’s ideal to go with one ready.

You can either use an app or traditional pen and paper to keep notes. This could be as simple as jotting down when you’re on your period in your diary or a detailed account of how you’re feeling each day in a cycle tracking app. Choose whichever fits most easily into your lifestyle.