Menopause: What Every Woman Should Know

Menopause is a natural stage of life that usually happens in your late 40s to early 50s. It marks the end of your periods and the shift away from the reproductive years. This happens because the ovaries slowly stop producing the hormones oestrogen and progesterone.

These hormones do far more than just control your menstrual cycle. Oestrogen, in particular, helps keep your bones strong, supports brain function, protects the heart, and even influences your mood and skin. So, when hormone levels drop, it can affect many parts of the body. That’s why menopause can bring such a wide mix of symptoms — some physical, some emotional.

For some women, changes are hardly noticeable. For others, they can be disruptive and exhausting. Around 20% of women sail through with no symptoms, 60% have mild to moderate ones, and about 20% experience severe symptoms that can really impact daily life. Wherever you fall on that scale, you’re not alone — and understanding what’s happening in your body is the first step towards managing it.

Did you know there are 34 recognised symptoms of menopause? Here’s the full list:

Vaginal dryness – less natural lubrication, often making sex uncomfortable.

Irregular periods – cycles become unpredictable, shorter, longer, or heavier.

Hot flushes – sudden waves of heat, often with sweating and a racing heartbeat.

Night sweats – intense sweating during sleep, leading to disrupted rest.

Insomnia – trouble falling or staying asleep.

Mood swings – sudden ups and downs in emotions.

Weight gain – often around the tummy, linked to hormonal changes.

Memory lapses & brain fog – forgetfulness or trouble concentrating.

Depression – low mood, loss of motivation or interest.

Anxiety – feelings of worry or dread.

Panic attacks – sudden surges of fear, sometimes with chest tightness or sweating.

Irritability – shorter temper or feeling easily triggered.

Fatigue – constant tiredness despite rest.

Decreased libido – lower interest in sex.

Tingling sensations – pins and needles in hands, feet, or face.

Burning mouth – unusual hot or burning feeling in the mouth.

Electric shock feelings – brief jolts, sometimes in the head or chest.

Itchy skin – irritation without an obvious cause.

Joint pain – stiffness or soreness, often worse in the morning.

Muscle aches – ongoing tension or discomfort.

Breast tenderness – sensitivity or swelling.

Headaches – new or more frequent migraines or headaches.

Digestive changes – bloating, food intolerances, or IBS-like symptoms.

Food cravings – strong urges for particular foods.

Changes in taste – foods tasting different or dull.

Bloating – water retention and discomfort.

Thinning hair – hair becoming finer or shedding more.

Brittle nails – nails breaking or peeling more easily.

Bladder incontinence – leaks when coughing, sneezing, or exercising.

Dizziness – spells of feeling light-headed.

Allergies – stronger reactions to triggers than before.

Osteoporosis – reduced bone strength, higher risk of fractures.

Irregular heartbeat – palpitations or a fluttering sensation in the chest.

Menopause doesn’t look the same for everyone, and that’s okay. Lifestyle, health, and even family history all play a role in how you experience it. The good news? Knowledge is power. When you know what to expect, you can make choices to support your health and well-being.