What to know first
- Menopause is reached after 12 months without a period, when no other cause explains it.
- Symptoms can include hot flashes, night sweats, sleep trouble, mood change, and vaginal dryness.
- Unexpected or heavy bleeding should be evaluated.
Track the whole pattern
Record cycle changes, hot-flash frequency, night sweats, sleep, mood, headaches, vaginal or urinary symptoms, medicines, and the effect on work and daily life. The pattern can help distinguish which symptoms need separate evaluation.
Menopause is a normal life stage, but symptoms do not have to be endured without support. Treatment choice depends on the symptom, medical history, preferences, and individual risks.
Prepare useful questions
Ask which lifestyle changes, nonhormonal options, local treatments, or menopausal hormone therapy might fit you; what benefits and risks apply; and how response will be reviewed. Mention migraine, clotting history, cancer history, liver disease, and all medicines or supplements.
Bleeding after menopause, very heavy bleeding, new pelvic pain, chest pain, or severe mood symptoms require prompt evaluation rather than self-treatment with a menopause product.
Sources and further reading
We prioritize authoritative public-health and government sources. Open each source to review the original guidance and latest updates.