Menopause: understanding the change and knowing when to seek support

For many women, menopause is a natural stage of life – yet it remains one of the most misunderstood and under-discussed health transitions.

In Australia, most women experience menopause between the ages of 45 and 55, with the average age being 51. While menopause is a normal part of ageing, the symptoms and experiences associated with it can vary significantly from person to person.

Some women experience few or no symptoms, while others find symptoms have a significant impact on their work, relationships, mental health and overall quality of life.

What is menopause?

Menopause occurs when a woman has her final menstrual period. It happens when the ovaries stop producing eggs and levels of hormones such as oestrogen begin to decline.

The transition into menopause is known as perimenopause, which can begin several years before a woman’s final period. During this time, hormone levels fluctuate, causing changes to menstrual cycles and, for many women, the onset of menopausal symptoms.

Perimenopause commonly begins around the age of 47 and can last between four and six years, although every woman’s experience is different.

Once a woman has gone 12 months without a menstrual period, she is considered postmenopausal.

Recognising the signs

One of the earliest signs of perimenopause is a change in menstrual periods. Periods may become irregular, lighter or heavier than usual, or stop for several months before returning.

Common symptoms of perimenopause and menopause include:

• hot flushes
• night sweats
• sleep disturbances
• mood changes and anxiety
• difficulty concentrating or memory changes
• reduced sex drive
• vaginal dryness and discomfort

While these symptoms are common, they should not be dismissed as something women simply have to endure.

Everyone’s experience is different

Menopause affects women differently. Some may continue their daily activities with minimal disruption, while others experience symptoms which make it difficult to work, exercise, sleep or maintain their usual routines.

Menopause can also occur earlier than expected.

Around one in five women experience menopause before the age of 45. Menopause which occurs before age 40 is known as premature menopause, while menopause between ages 41 and 45 is referred to as early menopause.

Some women also experience medically induced menopause following treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy or certain medications.

Support is available

There are a range of treatments and support options available to help manage menopausal symptoms.

Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT), also known as Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), is considered the most effective treatment for many symptoms. However, it may not be suitable for everyone, and treatment decisions should be made in consultation with a healthcare professional.

Women are encouraged to speak with their GP if symptoms are affecting their quality of life, mental wellbeing, relationships or ability to participate in everyday activities.

No one should feel they need to struggle through menopause alone.

Reliable information at your fingertips

To help women better understand perimenopause and menopause, the Australian Government has launched a dedicated website featuring evidence-based information, resources and personal stories.

The resources are designed to support women from all backgrounds, including First Nations and multicultural communities, and encourage informed conversations about symptoms, treatment options and long-term health.

By increasing awareness and normalising conversations about menopause, more women can access the support they need to navigate this significant life transition with confidence.

For more information about perimenopause, menopause and available support, visit the Australian Government’s Menopause and Perimenopause website or speak with your healthcare professional.