Menopause occurs when you have not had a menstrual period for 12 months. Menopause is a natural part of life generally occurring between 48-52 years, but can also happen for other reasons including after:

• surgery to remove ovaries (oophorectomy) and/or your womb/uterus (hysterectomy)
• chemotherapy
• radiotherapy to your pelvis.

At menopause, you stop producing oestrogen (the main sex hormone in women) and this can lead to menopausal symptoms. Oestrogen levels can vary in the time leading up to the final menstrual period (called the perimenopause).

The most obvious of the changes at menopause is an alteration in period pattern, with eventual cessation of all periods. Whilst this can be a simple transition, some women experience difficulties with their periods, such as excessively heavy bleeding and more frequent bleeding. This may need medical intervention to prevent other problems such as iron deficiency anaemia.

If you are concerned about your symptoms, or simply have questions regarding menopause, feel free to book a consultation with one of our experienced doctors.