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  Jean Hailes for Women's Health
  Health Consumer Organisation

  Founded in 1992, Jean Hailes for Women's Health reflects the enduring legacy that Dr Jean Hailes made to women’s health. Jean had a far-sighted vision ... View profile

  As we approach menopause, the production of hormones (i.e. oestrogen) by the ovaries starts to slow down. As this process accelerates, hormone levels fluctuate more and often a woman notices changes in her menstrual cycle. Cycles may become longer, shorter or totally irregular, bleeding may become lighter or unpredictable and heavy.
  
  Other common symptoms associated with the onset of menopause include:
  

  • Hot flushes and night sweats
    
  • Aches and pains
    
  • Crawling or itching sensations under the skin
    
  • Headaches
    
  • Vaginal dryness
    
  • Reduced sex drive (libido)
    
  • Urinary frequency
    
  • Tiredness
    
  • Irritability
    
  • Depression
    
  • Sleeping difficulty
    
  • Lack of self esteem
    
  • Forgetfulness
    

   
  Menopause symptoms can begin gradually over two to six years before the last menstrual period. This time is called the perimenopause - from the time periods become irregular until 12 months after that final period.
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