It is hardly surprising that with the list of symptoms menopause can cause it is filling people with a sense of dread! There are lots of unscrupulous clinics out there praying on our anxieties and currently offering HRT way above recommended levels that we do not have safety data for.
The truth is, the majority of women will only have one or two of these symptoms (listed below) and many can manage them without medication. It is easy to over medicalise menopause and see HRT as the panacea to all of the issues caused by one’s fluctuating hormones. Don’t get me wrong, as a GP I have seen HRT work brilliantly for some patients but not all.
As a patient myself, with a history of breast cancer, plunged into menopause at 38 by medication but without the option of HRT it has spurred me on to look for all options available!
In the following weeks I will be adding blogs about HRT and the alternatives!
These are the list of symptoms that menopause can bring on!
- Hot flashes: Sudden feelings of heat, often accompanied by sweating and flushing of the face and neck.
- Night sweats: Excessive sweating during sleep, which can disrupt sleep patterns.
- Irregular periods: Menstrual cycles may become irregular, lighter, or heavier.
- Vaginal dryness: Decreased lubrication in the vagina, leading to discomfort or pain during sexual intercourse.
- Mood swings: Fluctuations in mood, including irritability, anxiety, and depression.
- Sleep disturbances: Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep.
- Fatigue: Feeling tired or lacking energy.
- Changes in libido: Decreased sexual desire or changes in sexual satisfaction.
- Memory and concentration problems: Some women may experience difficulties with memory or concentration.
- Weight gain: Some women may notice weight gain or changes in body composition during menopause.
It is an exhaustive (terrifying looking) list but don’t lose hope and remember most won’t have all of these symptoms!
Book Appointment
If you would like to book in for a GP consultation or a menopause health check (including blood tests) please contact the clinic for more information or visit our booking page to book an appointment.
