START HERE
Where are you in your Changes in periods, sleep, mood, temperature, energy and sexual health can appear gradually. Start with what you’re experiencing and explore reliable information at your own pace.
Understanding the menopause transition Midlife hormonal changes happen over time. These three broad stages can help you understand the language commonly used by healthcare professionals.
THE TRANSITION
Perimenopause
The years leading up to menopause, when hormone levels can fluctuate and periods may begin to change.
POSSIBLE EXPERIENCES
Irregular periods Hot flashes Sleep disruption Mood changes Brain fog Breast tenderness
A POINT IN TIME
Menopause
Menopause is reached after 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period, when no other medical cause explains the change.
POSSIBLE EXPERIENCES
Hot flashes Night sweats Sleep changes Vaginal dryness Mood changes
WHAT COMES NEXT
Postmenopause
The years after menopause, when some symptoms may continue and long-term health becomes increasingly important.
FOCUS AREAS
Bone health Heart health Muscle strength Sexual health Metabolic health Preventive care
Not sure which stage sounds like you? Start with a few simple questions about your periods and recent changes.
Has your menstrual cycle changed recently?
Yes No I don’t have periods Not sure
Have you gone 12 months without a period?
Yes No Not applicable
Have you noticed new or changing symptoms?
Yes No
Help Me Find Where to Start
This tool is for education only and does not diagnose menopause or rule out other causes of symptoms.
Or start with what you’re experiencing You don’t need to know your stage before exploring symptoms.
Try “night sweats”, “brain fog” or “joint pain”
Hot flashes Night sweats Sleep problems Brain fog Anxiety Irregular periods Joint pain Vaginal dryness Low libido Heart palpitations Headaches Fatigue
Explore All Symptoms → What has changed for you? Periods & bleeding
Cycle changes, heavier or lighter flow, skipped or unpredictable periods.
Explore → Sleep & temperature
Hot flashes, night sweats, insomnia and waking during the night.
Explore → Mood & mental wellbeing
Anxiety, low mood, irritability and feeling unlike yourself.
Explore → Body & physical symptoms
Joint pain, headaches, palpitations, skin and hair changes.
Explore → Sexual & pelvic health
Vaginal dryness, low libido, discomfort and urinary changes.
Explore → Energy, weight & metabolism
Fatigue, weight changes, muscle loss and slower recovery.
Explore → What should you do next? Your next step depends on what you’re experiencing and how much it is affecting your life.
When is it worth getting medical advice? Many changes around midlife can be associated with the menopause transition, but symptoms can also have other causes.
Consider making an appointment if:
• symptoms are interfering with sleep, work or daily life
• bleeding patterns have changed significantly
• you are unsure whether symptoms may be related to menopause
• you want to discuss treatment options
• symptoms are persistent or difficult to manage
Seek more urgent medical advice for symptoms such as:
• very heavy or unexpected bleeding
• bleeding after menopause
• severe chest pain
• fainting
• sudden neurological symptoms
• thoughts of self-harm
Not ready to figure everything out today? Start with the free Midlife Atlas Menopause Starter Kit.
Free. No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
MIDLIFE ATLAS
30-Day Symptom Tracker
STARTER KIT
Appointment Preparation Sheet
QUESTIONS TO ASK
Common questions when you’re just getting started Can perimenopause start while I still have regular periods?
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What age does perimenopause usually begin?
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Do I need a blood test to know if I’m in menopause?
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Can symptoms begin before my periods change?
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How long can perimenopause last?
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Can symptoms continue after menopause?
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Should I talk to my doctor about HRT now?
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How do I know whether a symptom is menopause-related?
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Evidence-led
Uses reputable medical and scientific sources.
Expert reviewed
Health content is reviewed by qualified professionals where appropriate.
Regularly updated
Important guidance is reviewed as evidence changes.
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Editorial standards, corrections and disclosures are publicly available.
