Living with menopause

The menopause really means the last period that a woman has. The word is more generally used as meaning that period of time it takes for the periods to stop (also called the climacteric). This may last for several years before the last period itself and other symptoms may continue for several years afterwards.

Menopausal symptoms include hot flushes and sweats which may occur at night and disturb sleep. The vagina is less well lubricated which may cause problems with intercourse, mild infections and occasional bleeding. Women may notice mood changes and loss of concentration and there may  be less interest in sex. These symptoms are not always due to the menopause.