Menopause isn't an illness — but its symptoms can be real and disruptive, and you don't have to simply put up with them. Here's what's happening in your body, and what genuinely helps.
Perimenopause is the transition, when oestrogen levels start to fluctuate and fall. Periods may become irregular, heavier or lighter, and symptoms can come and go — sometimes for several years. Menopause itself is a single point: 12 months after your final period. Everything afterwards is post-menopause.
Not every woman has every symptom, and their intensity varies a lot. The usual ones include:
These changes ease symptoms for many women and protect long-term health whatever else you decide:
Hormone replacement therapy tops up the oestrogen your body is no longer making. It's the most effective treatment for hot flushes and night sweats, improves sleep and mood for many women, and protects bone density. For most healthy women who start it under 60 or within 10 years of menopause, the benefits clearly outweigh the small risks — but it's a personal decision that depends on your history, which is exactly what a consultation is for. For vaginal dryness alone, a low-dose local oestrogen cream or pessary is very effective and safe for long-term use.
If HRT isn't suitable or isn't for you, there are non-hormonal medicines that reduce flushes, cognitive behavioural therapy has good evidence for both flushes and sleep, and vaginal moisturisers help with dryness. Many women combine approaches.
Falling oestrogen speeds up bone loss and shifts heart-disease risk, so post-menopause is the time to take both seriously: a bone density scan if you have risk factors, regular blood pressure, sugar and cholesterol checks, and the exercise and diet habits above. It's also worth staying up to date with cervical and breast screening.
Any bleeding after 12 months without periods — even a small amount — should always be checked promptly. It's usually something simple, but it must never be ignored.
The clearest next step is a calm consultation. Dr. Ritika will talk it through with you — no rush, no jargon.
In India the average is around 46–47, though anywhere from the early 40s to mid-50s is normal. Perimenopausal symptoms often begin several years earlier.
For most healthy women who start within 10 years of menopause or before 60, yes — the benefits outweigh the small risks. Your personal and family history matter, which is why it's decided together at a consultation.
Hot flushes last around 4–7 years on average, though some women have them for longer. Vaginal dryness tends to persist without treatment. Symptoms can be managed effectively at any stage.
It's recommended if you have risk factors — early menopause, family history of osteoporosis, low body weight, long-term steroid use, or a previous fracture. Ask at your check-up.
No. Any bleeding after 12 months without a period should be checked promptly. It's usually benign, but it always needs assessment.
Consultations at Cloudnine Hospital, Phase 3 Industrial Area, Mohali · Mon–Sat, 10 AM – 5 PM.
General education only — not a substitute for a personal consultation. If you have urgent symptoms, seek care promptly.