Menopause The menopause, also known as the change of life or climacteric, brings emotional and physical changes for women. We explain what to expect, how to minimise symptoms, such as hot flushes, and how hormone replacement therapy works.

In this article

What is it? When does it occur? Physical symptoms

Emotional symptoms Hormone replacement therapy Nutrition

Self-help Advice and support

The menopause occurs when levels of the female hormones oestrogen and progesterone fall and your body stops producing eggs. Menstruation ceases permanently and you're no longer able to conceive. It can be a time of great physical and emotional change that can overwhelm you if you don't know what to expect.

There's no predicting when the menopause will occur. Generally, it's between the ages of 45 and 55, but for a few women it can start as early as 35 - or as late as 60. This doesn't mean you're in any way abnormal, although an unusually early menopause (before the age of 36, sometimes as young as 18) may have implications that need to be addressed.

Video Nation

Liz describes her experiences of going through the menopause

Without the previously high levels of oestrogen, your risk of heart disease and osteoporosis (brittle bones) increases. If the menopause comes early - or if there's a high family risk of these diseases - you should see your GP. If he or she thinks it appropriate, tests such as a bone-density scan or mammogram will be arranged.

Usually, there'll be some sign that the menopause is approaching. Periods can gradually become further apart, they may be scantier and not last as long. Alternatively, some women experience heavier bleeding with shorter gaps between. Occasionally, menstruation just stops altogether with no warning.

For the majority of women, the menopause will last no more than a couple of years, although others experience symptoms for as long as five or six years.