The Government has recently provided information aimed to increase people’s understanding of perimenopause and menopause and the impact it can have on women’s emotional and physical health and wellbeing. It hopes that, by allowing people to learn more about perimenopause and menopause, this can empower them to access management and treatment options and feel prepared.

As psychologists we often meet women in their 40s and 50s who are struggling to understand and manage changes in their sleep patterns, level of anxiety, irritability and ability to concentrate which can be distressing and confusing. We would always recommend, as a first step, discussing these changes with a family doctor, who has a good understanding of women’s health. For some women Menopause Hormone Therapy (MHT) or HRT can make a huge difference and eliminate symptoms. The literature suggests that modern MHT has much lower risks than the types of hormone treatments used in the past and this is something that can be discussed with your doctor.

However, there are other things including exercise, lifestyle and behavioural changes that can make a positive impact on wellbeing during this time. Not all women want to go on MHT or may have a family history of cancer which may contraindicate hormone treatment. Some women may experience minimal symptoms during perimenopause and menopause or may only have short term changes but for some women symptoms can continue for many years and do not simply go away with time.

For more information https://www.health.gov.au/perimenopause