Menopause – Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment Options

Overview of Menopause

Menopause is a natural biological process where your ovaries stop releasing eggs and your periods come to an end. For most women, this transition occurs between ages 45 and 55, with the average age being around 51 years (WHO, 2021). While menopause is not a disease, the physical and emotional changes can be challenging.

What happens during menopause?

During your reproductive years, your ovaries produce hormones like estrogen and progesterone that regulate your periods and fertility. As menopause approaches, these hormone levels decline. The reduction is gradual at first (a stage called perimenopause) and then becomes more pronounced once your cycles stop completely.

This hormone shift doesn’t just affect your period. It can also influence:

• Sleep (insomnia, night sweats)
• Mood (anxiety, irritability, depression)
• Cognitive health (difficulty concentrating, memory lapses)
• Physical health (weight gain, bone density changes, skin and hair changes)

How common is menopause?

Every woman who reaches midlife will experience menopause if they do not undergo surgery or medical treatments that remove the ovaries earlier. Globally, more than 1 billion women are expected to be in menopause by 2025 (WHO, 2021).

Daily life impact of menopause

Menopause can influence many areas of life, including:

• Work performance: Hot flashes and poor sleep can reduce productivity.
• Exercise and sports: Joint pain, fatigue, and body changes may limit physical performance.
• Sleep: Night sweats and insomnia often interrupt rest.
• Relationships: Mood shifts, decreased libido, and intimacy concerns can affect partnerships.
• Mental health: Anxiety, low mood, or reduced confidence can develop during the transition.

Menopause is sometimes compared with pregnancy—both are natural hormonal transitions—but menopause is permanent and brings long-term changes in health risk (e.g., heart disease, osteoporosis).

👉 Related reading: Perimenopause – Symptoms and Care | Osteoporosis – Bone Health and Prevention

Reference: World Health Organization. (2021). Menopause. Retrieved from: https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/menopause

Symptoms of Menopause

Menopause symptoms are caused by changes in hormone levels, mainly a drop in estrogen. While some women have mild symptoms, others find the experience disruptive to daily life.

What are the main symptoms of menopause?

The most common symptoms include:

• Hot flashes and night sweats – sudden feelings of heat, often with sweating and flushing
• Irregular periods – before they stop completely
• Sleep problems – difficulty falling or staying asleep
• Mood changes – irritability, sadness, or anxiety
• Vaginal dryness – leading to discomfort or pain during sex
• Changes in libido – reduced or sometimes increased sex drive

Physical symptoms explained

• Hot flashes: Short bursts of heat that may occur several times daily.
• Night sweats: Hot flashes that happen during sleep, often waking you up.
• Weight changes: Slower metabolism and fat redistribution to the abdomen.
• Hair and skin: Thinning hair, dryness, or changes in skin elasticity.
• Joint and muscle aches: Increased stiffness and discomfort.

Emotional and cognitive symptoms

• Mood swings: Similar to PMS, but often more unpredictable.
• Memory lapses and brain fog: Difficulty concentrating or recalling words.
• Fatigue: Persistent tiredness from poor sleep and hormonal shifts.

Red-flag symptoms – when to seek medical help

While menopause itself is normal, you should seek care if you notice:

• Unusually heavy bleeding or bleeding after menopause
• Severe depression or anxiety affecting daily life
• Chest pain or palpitations
• Rapid unexplained weight loss

These may signal conditions unrelated to menopause, such as thyroid disorders, fibroids, or even cancer.

How menopause symptoms affect daily performance

• At work: Hot flashes during meetings may be embarrassing; fatigue reduces focus.
• In sports: Recovery may take longer, with increased joint pain.
• At home: Sleep loss can strain patience, communication, and relationships.
• Socially: Anxiety and self-consciousness may cause withdrawal from activities.

👉 Related reading: Anxiety – Understanding Symptoms and Care | Insomnia – Causes and Treatments

Reference: Freeman, E.W., & Sherif, K. (2007). Prevalence of hot flushes and night sweats around the world: a systematic review. Climacteric, 10(3), 197-214. https://doi.org/10.1080/13697130701268218

Causes and Risk Factors for Menopause

The main cause of menopause is the natural decline in reproductive hormones, especially estrogen and progesterone. However, several lifestyle and health factors influence when and how you experience menopause.

What causes menopause?

• Natural aging: The most common cause; ovaries gradually produce less estrogen.
• Surgical menopause: Removal of ovaries (oophorectomy) causes immediate menopause.
• Medical treatments: Chemotherapy and radiation can damage ovaries, leading to early menopause.
• Primary ovarian insufficiency: A condition where ovaries stop functioning before age 40.

What are the main risk factors for earlier menopause?

• Age: Natural menopause usually occurs between 45–55.
• Genetics: Family history strongly influences timing.
• Smoking: Associated with earlier onset by up to 2 years.
• Body weight: Low BMI may cause earlier menopause, while obesity may worsen symptoms.
• Health conditions: Autoimmune diseases, thyroid disorders, or surgical interventions.
• Pregnancy history: Women who never carried a pregnancy may reach menopause slightly earlier.

How lifestyle and occupation play a role

• Stress: Chronic stress can worsen symptoms such as sleep and mood changes.
• Sedentary jobs: May amplify weight gain and joint stiffness.
• Shift work: Sleep disruption can intensify hot flashes and fatigue.
• Comparisons: How is menopause different from perimenopause?
• Perimenopause: The “transition phase” before menopause, when cycles are irregular but not stopped.
• Menopause: Defined as 12 months without a period.

Postmenopause: Life stage after menopause; symptoms may continue but health risks (osteoporosis, heart disease) become more important.

👉 Related reading: Hormone Replacement Therapy – Risks and Benefits | Heart Disease in Women – Prevention and Care

Reference: Nelson, H.D. (2008). Menopause. The Lancet, 371(9614), 760–770. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(08)60346-3

Diagnosis, Recovery, and Management of Menopause

Menopause is a natural transition, not a disease, but its diagnosis, recovery expectations, and management strategies are essential for understanding what to expect and how to live well during this stage of life.

Diagnosis of Menopause

Menopause is usually diagnosed based on symptoms and your medical history, rather than a single test. Because menopause is a natural life stage, most women do not need extensive testing unless symptoms are unusual or severe.

How do doctors test for menopause?

Doctors begin with a clinical interview where they ask about your menstrual history, symptoms, and lifestyle factors. If you’ve gone 12 months without a period, you are considered menopausal.

In most cases, lab tests are not required, but in younger women (under 40–45) or those with unusual symptoms, doctors may order tests such as:

• FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone): Often elevated in menopause.
• Estrogen levels: Typically low after menopause.
• Thyroid function tests: To rule out thyroid disease, which can mimic menopause symptoms.
• Imaging (such as pelvic ultrasound) is rarely needed unless there are red-flag signs like abnormal bleeding.

What do doctors look for in a menopause evaluation?

Practitioners focus on identifying:

• Timing of menstrual cycle changes (irregular, skipped, or absent periods).
• Severity of symptoms (hot flashes, mood changes, vaginal dryness, sleep problems).
• Underlying health issues (thyroid disease, autoimmune conditions, or other hormone imbalances).
• Family history of early menopause, heart disease, or osteoporosis.

How is menopause different from other conditions?

1. Thyroid disorders can cause fatigue, mood changes, or irregular cycles, similar to menopause.
2. Depression or anxiety may overlap with mood symptoms of menopause but require different treatment.
3. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects younger women and causes irregular periods but not permanent menopause.

Doctors use the clinical picture — your symptoms, history, and sometimes lab confirmation — to distinguish menopause from other causes.

👉 Related reading: Thyroid Disorders – Symptoms and Testing | Anxiety – How It Differs from Menopause Mood Changes

Reference: Stuenkel, C.A., et al. (2015). Treatment of Symptoms of the Menopause: An Endocrine Society Clinical Practice Guideline. J Clin Endocrinol Metab, 100(11), 3975–4011. https://doi.org/10.1210/jc.2015-2236

Recovery & Prognosis for Menopause

Menopause does not “heal” because it is a permanent transition, but your body adapts over time. Most women find symptoms improve within several years, although some effects — like vaginal dryness or bone loss — can persist.

How long does menopause last?

1. Mild cases: Hot flashes and sleep changes may last 1–2 years.
2. Moderate cases: Symptoms can continue for 4–7 years.
3. Severe cases: Up to 1 in 4 women experience symptoms for more than 10 years.

Recovery pathway — if/then scenarios

1. If your symptoms are mild, lifestyle changes (exercise, diet, sleep hygiene) may be enough.
2. If your symptoms are moderate, doctors may suggest hormone therapy or non-hormonal medications.
3. If your symptoms are severe, a multidisciplinary plan (hormones, counseling, physical therapy, nutrition) is often recommended.

Long-term outlook after menopause

• Recurrence risk: Once periods stop, they do not return, but symptoms like hot flashes may come and go.
• Bone health: Risk of osteoporosis increases; calcium, vitamin D, and weight-bearing exercise are essential.
• Heart health: Estrogen decline raises cardiovascular risk, making lifestyle changes critical.
• Mental health: Anxiety and mood issues often improve, but long-term support may be needed.

Return-to-work, return-to-sport, and lifestyle outcomes

• Work: With effective symptom management, most women continue careers without interruption. Flexible schedules and workplace accommodations can help.
• Sports/exercise: Joint pain or fatigue may temporarily limit activity, but regular movement improves long-term outcomes.
• Lifestyle: With planning, most women enjoy active, fulfilling post-menopausal years, often reporting new freedom from periods and pregnancy concerns.

👉 Related reading: Osteoporosis – Prevention and Lifestyle | Heart Disease in Women – Long-term Care

Reference: Avis, N.E., et al. (2015). Duration of Menopausal Vasomotor Symptoms Over the Menopause Transition. JAMA Intern Med, 175(4), 531–539. https://doi.org/10.1001/jamainternmed.2014.8063

Management of Menopause

Managing menopause involves a combination of lifestyle strategies, medical treatments, and emotional support. The best plan depends on your symptoms, preferences, and health risks.

What’s the best way to manage menopause at home?

Self-care plays a big role. Evidence-based relief strategies include:

• Keep cool: Dress in layers, use fans, and avoid hot drinks or alcohol before bed.
• Exercise regularly: Walking, yoga, or swimming improves mood, sleep, and bone health.
• Healthy diet: Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein. Reduce caffeine and spicy foods if they trigger hot flashes.
• Good sleep hygiene: Keep a consistent bedtime, avoid screens before bed, and create a cool, dark environment.
• Stress management: Mindfulness, meditation, or counseling can reduce anxiety.

Step-by-step self-help & relief tips

1. Identify your triggers (spicy foods, alcohol, stress).
2. Adjust your environment (layer clothing, keep water handy).
3. Move your body daily (even short walks help circulation and mood).
4. Practice relaxation techniques (deep breathing during a hot flash can shorten its duration).
5. Track your symptoms (apps or journals help identify patterns).

Medical and therapeutic approaches

• Hormone replacement therapy (HRT): The most effective treatment for hot flashes and bone protection, but not suitable for everyone.
• Non-hormonal medications: SSRIs, SNRIs, gabapentin, or clonidine for hot flashes if HRT is not an option.
• Vaginal treatments: Moisturizers, lubricants, or low-dose estrogen creams for dryness and discomfort.
• Therapy and counseling: Helpful for mood changes, anxiety, or relationship stress.

Lifestyle optimization and community support

• Posture and ergonomics: Supporting joint health reduces aches and fatigue.
• Core strength and flexibility: Pilates, yoga, or strength training improves mobility and reduces fall risk.
• Social support: Support groups and community programs can help normalize the experience.
• Coaching and habit formation: Building healthy routines (diet, sleep, stress management) helps long-term well-being.

👉 Related reading: Insomnia – Sleep Hygiene and Treatments | Anxiety – Coping and Recovery

Reference: National Institute on Aging. (2021). Menopause: Time for a Change. Retrieved from https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/menopause

Multidisciplinary Coordinated Care for Menopause at CARESPACE

At CARESPACE, menopause care goes beyond symptom relief. We bring together a team of health professionals to address the physical, emotional, and lifestyle changes that happen during menopause. This multidisciplinary, evidence-based approach helps you feel supported through every stage of the transition.

How does CARESPACE treat menopause differently?

Most clinics focus on only one part of menopause — such as prescribing medication or offering counseling. CARESPACE takes a coordinated approach, combining physical therapy, mental health support, nutrition, and lifestyle coaching into one integrated care plan.

Our team works together to address:

• Physical symptoms like hot flashes, joint stiffness, and sleep disruption.
• Mental health challenges such as anxiety, mood swings, or low confidence.
• Lifestyle concerns including weight management, fatigue, and long-term prevention of osteoporosis and heart disease.

For example, if you come in with hot flashes, poor sleep, and stress-related muscle tension, your care might begin with physiotherapy to improve posture and circulation, while a massage therapist helps reduce tension. At the same time, a psychotherapist supports you in managing stress and coping strategies, and a nutritionist helps you adapt your diet for hormone balance and bone health.

👉 Learn more about our physiotherapy for menopause support

👉 Explore massage therapy for stress and muscle relief

👉 Discover psychotherapy for menopause-related stress

Why does a team approach help menopause recovery faster?

When you see only one provider, you may only address part of the problem. At CARESPACE, every discipline communicates with one another, so your care is not fragmented. This means:

1. Faster relief because different symptoms are treated at the same time.
2. Better long-term outcomes through prevention strategies.
3. A personalized plan that adapts as your needs change.

Coordinated care across stages of menopause

1. Acute phase (severe hot flashes, heavy sleep disruption): Support may include relaxation coaching, acupuncture, and sleep-focused strategies alongside physical care.
2. Subacute phase (moderate ongoing symptoms): Focus shifts to nutrition, hormone-balancing lifestyle changes, and psychotherapy for mood or coping.
3. Maintenance phase (long-term health after symptoms improve): Kinesiology, fitness training, and naturopathic medicine help protect bone density, heart health, and overall well-being.

👉 Learn more about acupuncture for menopause symptoms

👉 See how nutrition support for hormone health works at CARESPACE

What types of care does CARESPACE provide for menopause?

Our care plans bring together a wide range of services, each tailored to your unique experience of menopause.

Physical health care

• Physiotherapy: Improves mobility, posture, and joint comfort, especially if menopause has led to stiffness or weight-related strain.
• Chiropractic care: Helps with back or neck discomfort that may be aggravated by hormonal changes in bone density and joint health.
• Massage therapy: Relieves muscle tension linked to stress, poor sleep, and hormonal shifts.
• Kinesiology & fitness training: Builds strength, flexibility, and endurance to maintain bone and heart health.

Mental health and emotional support

• Psychotherapy: Provides strategies to cope with mood swings, anxiety, and identity changes during menopause.
• Mental performance coaching: Helps you maintain focus, confidence, and resilience at work and in daily life.
• Stress management techniques: Mindfulness, relaxation training, and practical coping strategies reduce the emotional load of menopause.

Nutrition and lifestyle medicine

• Nutrition counseling: Supports weight management, energy balance, and bone health through diet.
• Naturopathic medicine: Offers natural evidence-based solutions, such as supplements for bone strength and safe herbal therapies when appropriate.
• Lifestyle coaching: Helps you adjust routines for better sleep, stress control, and overall well-being.

A personalized example of multidisciplinary care for menopause

Imagine you are experiencing:

• Night sweats that disturb your sleep
• Low mood and irritability
• Joint stiffness in the morning

At CARESPACE, your journey might look like this:

• Initial assessment with a physiotherapist to address stiffness and create an activity plan.
• Massage therapy to release tight muscles from poor sleep.
• Psychotherapy sessions to manage stress, improve coping, and address mood changes.
• Nutrition support to balance blood sugar and reduce hot-flash triggers.
• Fitness training with a kinesiologist to improve energy, posture, and bone health.

Each provider communicates with the others to ensure your care is consistent and effective. Unlike a single-discipline approach, this integrated pathway ensures your body, mind, and lifestyle are supported together.

The CARESPACE advantage in menopause care

Multidisciplinary, evidence-based care means you don’t have to choose between physical relief, emotional support, or lifestyle improvement — you get all three.

At CARESPACE, our unique approach provides:

• Faster relief through combined therapies.
• Lower recurrence risk because lifestyle, stress, and long-term health are addressed.
• Personalized, team-based care so your plan evolves with your needs.
• Support across all phases of menopause — from perimenopause symptoms to long-term postmenopausal health.

Related Conditions for Menopause

Menopause shares symptoms with several other health conditions, which can sometimes make diagnosis challenging. For example, hot flashes and fatigue may also occur with thyroid disease, while mood changes could resemble depression or anxiety.

Some of the most common related or overlapping conditions include:

• Perimenopause – the transitional stage before menopause, when cycles become irregular but have not fully stopped.
• Thyroid disorders – low or high thyroid function can mimic menopause symptoms like weight changes, fatigue, or mood swings.
• Depression and anxiety – while often triggered or worsened by menopause, these can also occur independently.
• Osteoporosis – a long-term condition more common after menopause due to lower estrogen levels.
• Cardiovascular disease – heart disease risk rises after menopause because estrogen’s protective effect declines.

Looking for information on a different condition? Visit our full Conditions List.