Healthdirect Free Australian health advice you can count on.

Medical problem? Call 1800 022 222. If you need urgent medical help, call triple zero immediately

healthdirect Australia is a free service where you can talk to a nurse or doctor who can help you know what to do.

beginning of content

A guide to menopause

As you go through menopause, you can experience physical and emotional symptoms. These symptoms are caused by changes to hormone levels in your body.

Menopausal symptoms can begin when you’re perimenopausal and continue post-menopause. Find out when you should see a doctor and about treatment.

Menopause

Menopause is the end of the reproductive stage of your life. Read here to find out more about menopause symptoms, treatment and support.

Perimenopause

Perimenopause is the stage of life leading up to your last period. Read about perimenopause symptoms and the treatment options available.

Post menopause

Post-menopause begins 12 months after your last period. Learn more about what to expect after menopause and health conditions that become more common.

Premature and early menopause

Early menopause and premature menopause is when menopause happens before the age of 45 years. Read about the causes, symptoms and treatments here.

Bleeding after menopause

Bleeding after menopause should always be checked out by a doctor. Learn about possible causes of postmenopausal bleeding and what to do next.

Hot flushes due to menopause

Hot flushes are a normal symptom of menopause. If hot flashes impact your daily activities or sleep, treatment is available from your doctor.

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT), or menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) comes in various forms and is used to treat the symptoms of menopause.

Managing menopausal symptoms without medication

Menopause can cause many physical and emotional symptoms. Read more about some lifestyle and behaviour changes you can make to help you cope better.

Bloating

Bloating is when your tummy feels swollen. Bloating is common, but if you often feel bloated you should see a doctor. Learn more about bloating here.

Depression in women

Depression is a serious mental health condition affecting how you think, feel and behave. It is more common in women than men for a range of reasons.

Fatigue

Fatigue is when you feel exhausted and have no energy. Read about the possible causes of fatigue, some self-care tips and when to seek help.

Headaches

Headache is a common health complaint and most headaches are not serious. Learn about the different types of headaches and pain relief options.

Heart and cardiovascular conditions

Learn more about the conditions that affect your heart and cardiovascular system, such as high blood pressure, angina and heart disease.

Insomnia

Insomnia is a common sleep disorder that can affect your mood and how you think. Learn more about symptoms and treatments for insomnia.

Irritability and feeling on edge

Occasional irritability is normal. If you feel irritable or on edge all the time, it may be a symptom of a physical or mental health disorder.

Itchy skin

Itchy skin, or pruritis, is a common irritation. It can be very frustrating. Understand different types of itchy skin and how to ease your discomfort.

Joint pain and swelling

Joint pain and swelling can affect any joint in the body. Learn more about managing pain and living well.

Loss of female libido

It's not unusual for people to lose interest in sex at some stage. Read about a range of physical and psychological factors that can be involved.

Muscle aches and pains

Muscular aches and pains are common. They are often caused by tension, overuse of muscles, or injury following exercise.

Night sweats

Night sweats may be a sign of a medical condition or may be caused by a medicine. Find out more about night sweats, common causes and treatments.

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a condition that affects your bones, causing them to become weak and fragile. Learn about its treatment, risk factors and prevention.

Urinary incontinence

Find out about urinary incontinence (trouble controlling your bladder), including the causes, types, self-care, treatments and where to get support.

Healthdirect 24hr 7 days a week hotline

24 hour health advice you can count on

1800 022 222

Government Accredited with over 140 information partners

We are a government-funded service, providing quality, approved health information and advice

Australian Government, health department logo ACT Government logo New South Wales government, health department logo Northen Territory Government logo Queensland Government logo Government of South Australia, health department logo Tasmanian government logo Victorian government logo Government of Western Australia, health department logo

Healthdirect Australia acknowledges the Traditional Owners of Country throughout Australia and their continuing connection to land, sea and community. We pay our respects to the Traditional Owners and to Elders both past and present.