Midlife and menopause

A calm, accurate guide to what changes in perimenopause, menopause and the years after, and when to see a doctor.

• What perimenopause is and how to tellPerimenopause is the transition before periods stop for good, and a changing cycle is often the first sign.3 min
• Menopause: the basicsMenopause is a natural stage of life, confirmed once you have gone 12 months without a period, and it is not an illness.3 min
• Hot flushes and night sweatsHot flushes are among the most common symptoms of menopause, and both daily habits and treatment can ease them.3 min
• Sleep and mood in midlifeHormonal changes can upset sleep and mood, but lasting low mood or insomnia deserves a conversation with a doctor.3 min
• Bones and heart after menopauseOnce oestrogen falls, bones and heart need more care, and daily habits and regular check-ups make a real difference.4 min
• Hormone therapy: questions to ask a doctorHormone therapy eases menopause symptoms well, but the decision belongs with you and a doctor, based on your health history.4 min · Plus
• Vaginal dryness and bladder changesFalling oestrogen affects the vagina and urinary tract, and these common problems respond well to treatment.3 min · Plus
• Bleeding after menopause needs checkingAny bleeding after 12 months without a period, even a small spot, should be seen by a doctor.3 min
• Breast self-awareness and mammogramsKnowing what your breasts normally look and feel like helps you spot changes early, and a mammogram can find problems before symptoms appear.3 min