We have oestrogen receptors all over our bodies, including our bones, brains, heart, skin, bladder and vagina. There are many possible symptoms related to the menopause, some more commonly talked about than others. Symptoms vary a great deal between women and can change with time. They can be brief or last for decades. Some women notice very few or no symptoms.
If you are coming to the clinic you can download this symptom checker and bring it to your appointment Menopause Symptom Assessment _ . This includes many but not all of the possible symptoms.
Physical symptoms
Can include irregular periods, hot flushes, night sweats, difficulty sleeping, migraines and other headaches, palpitations, lack of energy, feeling faint or dizzy, aching muscles, painful joints, vaginal dryness or burning, urinary frequency, pain and incontinence, loss of libido, breast pain, dry eyes, dry ears, dry or burning mouth, metallic taste in the mouth, tinnitus, restless legs, increased allergies, weight gain around the abdomen, thinning and drier hair, brittle nails, increased facial hair, spots, and dry, itchy skin.
Psychological symptoms
Can include anxiety and panic attacks, low mood, depression, loss of joy, mood swings, irritability, worsening PMS, crying easily, poor concentration, lack of motivation, brain fog, poor memory, and low self-esteem.
Many women are given antidepressants at this stage of life when they would really benefit from HRT instead.
