Menopause

How can SASH support you?

SASH can provide you with information and advice on the menopause and related reproductive health conditions so you are fully informed on your sexual health. We can also provide our chaperone service to reproductive health related appointments.

What is the menopause?

Menopause is a natural stage in the life of someone who menstruates (has periods) where their periods stop permanently, and they can no longer become pregnant, marking the end of their reproductive years.

Why does the menopause happen?

As a menstruating person gets older, their ovaries slowly produce less of the hormones estrogen and progesterone, which regulate the menstrual cycle. Eventually, the ovaries stop releasing eggs, and periods become irregular before stopping altogether.

When does menopause happen?

This usually happens to someone when they are between the ages of 45 and 55, however there have been cases where this has happened earlier and later than this age range.
The time leading up to menopause is called perimenopause, where during this phase the hormone levels fluctuate and symptoms can start. Menopause is officially reached when the person hasn’t had a period for 12 consecutive months.

What are the symptoms?

As the body adjusts to lower hormone levels, there are various symptoms that might be experienced.
These include:

• Hot flushes (feeling hot on upper body or face)
• Mood swings
• Night Sweats (hot flushes during sleep)
• Vaginal Dryness
• Changes in periods (becoming heavier, lighter or irregular)
• Sleep problems

What is post-menopause?

Once menopause is complete, the time after periods have stopped is called 'post-menopause'. Symptoms like hot flushes might continue for a while, but the intensity will usually decrease. As there are now lower estrogen levels, the person may have an increased risk of health issues like osteoporosis (weakening of bones) and heart disease, so its important to have regular check-ins with a healthcare professional.

How can the menopause be managed?

Despite the menopause being a natural part of aging, the symptoms can sometimes be challenging and hard to navigate. Many people find they are able to manage their symptoms through lifestyle changes (such as a healthy diet and regular exercise), as well as stress management techniques.
In some cases, your healthcare professional may recommend hormone replacement therapy (HRT) or other treatments to help manage symptoms.

Menopause Champions

SASH has a Menopause Champions group, a peer led space that focuses on the menopause by improving services, creating and researching content, and delivering workshops. The group includes pre, peri and post-menopausal people, and creates a relaxed, personal and comfortable space for everyone to come together and connect. 

For more information on our Menopause Champions, as well as advice and support with the menopause, refer yourself to SASH.