Understanding Menopause: Why Does it Matters?

Menopause is a natural phase in a woman's biological journey, typically occurring between the ages of 45 and 55. While you may experience various changes, this period offers a chance to nurture your body, listen to its needs, and embrace your health and well-being. In the UK, fewer than 1 in 10 women feel they have enough information to navigate menopause (1), highlighting the importance of empowering ourselves with knowledge and support during this transformative time.

Why is it called menopause?

The term menopause, derived from the Greek words pausis, meaning pause, and men, meaning month, represents a powerful transition, the end of the reproductive cycle and the transformation that comes with the loss of fertility.

How do I know if I have menopause?

Menopause is officially confirmed after 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period (2), marking a significant transition in life. Remember that if you have irregular periods or experience amenorrhea, your healthcare professional may use different criteria to confirm this new phase. Embrace the journey ahead with awareness and confidence!

What are the stages?

As women journey through life, they will eventually embrace a year without a menstrual period, signifying their final menstrual moment. This transformation unfolds gradually, as the body adjusts with fluctuations in hormones and the experience of irregular periods. This beautiful phase is known as premenopause or perimenopause.

The "menopause transition" is a significant phase filled with hormonal changes, during which many women may miss a menstrual period within a three-month span or notice variations in their cycle length. This empowering journey toward menopause is called perimenopause. Postmenopause marks a beautiful new chapter (2), beginning after the final menstrual period, filled with potential and self-discovery.

From: Davis et al., 2023. 

What are the symptoms?

Women may encounter symptoms like (3):

• Hot flushes and night sweats

• Mood changes or increased anxiety

• Sleep disruptions

• Fatigue

• Vaginal dryness

• Changes in weight or body shape

• Brain fog or difficulty concentrating

Remember, these symptoms are common and with the right guidance, you can navigate this journey successfully!

So why should I be informed?

According to the first-ever government-led Women’s Health Strategy for England, a survey revealed that 5 out of 10 women rely on the NHS, GPs, and healthcare professionals for information about menopause, yet only 1 in 10 feels adequately informed (3). With 100,000 women participating in this study, nearly half were too young to have experienced menopause themselves, suggesting that the actual numbers may be even lower. Many women are navigating this life stage without the support they deserve.

As a dietitian, I consistently witness how small lifestyle and nutrition changes can profoundly impact the management of menopause symptoms, bolster bone health, and sustain energy levels. Being informed early empowers women to take proactive steps, allowing them to thrive physically, mentally, and emotionally through this important transition.

Written by: Dr Anastasia-Viktoria Lazaridi

References:

1. Wise, J. (2025). Menopause to be included in routine NHS health checks in England.  BMJ 2025; 391. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.r2233

2. Davis, S. R., Pinkerton, J., Santoro, N., & Simoncini, T. (2023). Menopause—Biology, consequences, supportive care, and therapeutic options. Cell, 186(19), 4038-4058. DOI:  https://doi.org/10.1016/j.cell.2023.08.016

3. Bruce, D., & Rymer, J. (2009). Symptoms of the menopause. Best practice & research Clinical obstetrics & gynaecology, 23(1), 25-32. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2008.10.002