World Menopause Month 2026: Understanding Menopause and Taking Control of Your Health

What Is Menopause?

Menopause occurs when a woman’s periods stop permanently due to a decline in hormone production by the ovaries. It usually happens between the ages of 45 and 55, although it can occur earlier or later.

The transition into menopause, known as perimenopause, can begin several years beforehand and is often when symptoms first develop. During this time, fluctuating hormone levels can affect various aspects of health and wellbeing.

Common Symptoms of Menopause

Every woman’s experience of menopause is different. Some experience relatively mild symptoms, while others find that symptoms significantly affect day-to-day life.

Common symptoms include:

• Hot flushes
• Night sweats
• Mood changes
• Sleep problems
• Fatigue
• Brain fog and difficulty concentrating
• Anxiety
• Reduced confidence
• Joint and muscle aches
• Vaginal dryness
• Reduced libido

Many women are surprised by the wide range of symptoms that can be associated with hormonal changes during menopause.

Why World Menopause Month Matters

Despite affecting every woman who reaches midlife, menopause has historically been under-discussed. Many women report feeling unprepared for the changes they experience or unsure where to find reliable information and support.

World Menopause Month aims to:

• Increase awareness and understanding
• Encourage conversations about menopause
• Support women experiencing symptoms
• Improve education around available treatments
• Reduce stigma surrounding menopause
• Promote better health outcomes for women in midlife and beyond

Menopause and Long-Term Health

While menopause is often associated with symptoms such as hot flushes and night sweats, it can also affect long-term health.

Declining oestrogen levels may increase the risk of:

• Osteoporosis and reduced bone strength
• Cardiovascular disease
• Changes in weight and body composition
• Sleep disruption
• Reduced overall wellbeing

This makes regular health reviews and preventative healthcare increasingly important during and after the menopause transition.

When Should You Seek Advice?

Many women assume they simply must “put up with” menopause symptoms. However, support and treatment options are available.

Consider seeking professional advice if symptoms:

• Are affecting your work or daily activities
• Are impacting your sleep
• Are affecting your relationships or emotional wellbeing
• Are causing significant discomfort
• Are making it difficult to enjoy normal activities

Seeking advice can help you better understand your symptoms and explore suitable treatment options.

Supporting Your Health During Menopause

There are many steps women can take to support their wellbeing during menopause.

Stay Physically Active – Regular exercise can support bone health, cardiovascular health and overall wellbeing.

Prioritise Sleep – Creating good sleep habits can help manage fatigue and improve daily functioning.

Eat a Balanced Diet – A healthy, balanced diet can support long-term health and help maintain energy levels.

Attend Regular Health Checks – Routine health assessments become increasingly important during midlife and beyond.

Talk About Your Symptoms – Open conversations with healthcare professionals, family and friends can help women access the support they need.

Let’s Change the Conversation

Menopause is a natural life stage, but that doesn’t mean women should have to struggle in silence. World Menopause Month is an opportunity to increase awareness, challenge misconceptions and ensure women feel empowered to seek support when they need it.

This October, take time to prioritise your health, learn more about menopause and encourage open conversations with those around you.