Menipause & Perimenopause at Sussex Premier Health

There’s no set rule for how long these symptoms will last. For some women, they pass relatively quickly. For others, they can persist for several years.

Perimenopause usually lasts about four years, but it can last anywhere from a few months to 10 years. Once you reach menopause, symptoms like hot flushes may continue for an average of four to five years, though some women experience them for longer. Because the duration varies so much, finding effective menopause support is crucial for maintaining your quality of life.

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to treating menopause. What works best for your friend might not be right for you, so we offer a range of menopause treatment options.

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is the most common treatment. It replaces the hormones your body is no longer producing. HRT is very effective at relieving many symptoms, particularly hot flushes and night sweats. It can also help protect your bones from osteoporosis. However, HRT isn’t suitable for everyone. If you cannot or choose not to take hormones, consider these options:

• Non-Hormonal Medications – Certain antidepressants and other drugs can help reduce hot flushes.
• Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) – This can help manage low mood, anxiety, and sleep problems associated with menopause.
• Vaginal Oestrogen – These are creams or tablets used specifically to treat vaginal dryness without affecting the rest of the body.

Medicine isn’t the only answer. Making changes to your daily life can have a big impact on how you feel. The Sussex Premier Health team can advise you on lifestyle adjustments to help you manage your symptoms naturally. Here are some strategies for managing hot flushes and improving your overall well-being:

• Diet – Eating a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D helps support bone health. Some women find that limiting caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods helps reduce hot flushes.
• Exercise – Regular physical activity supports heart health, bone density, and mental health. Weight-bearing exercises like walking or lifting weights are particularly beneficial.
• Stress Reduction – Practices like yoga, meditation, or simply taking time for yourself can help manage mood swings and anxiety.
• Sleep Hygiene – Establishing a regular sleep routine and maintaining a cool bedroom temperature can minimise sleep disturbances.
• Clothing – Wearing layers allows you to easily adjust your temperature when a hot flush strikes.

There’s been a lot of confusion about the safety of HRT in the past. But today, we know much more about its risks and benefits. Current evidence suggests that for most women under the age of 60, HRT’s benefits outweigh its risks. However, it’s a personal decision that should be based on your individual medical history.

Our specialists practice safety-led prescribing. You can trust us to find the lowest effective dose to manage your symptoms safely. Furthermore, we’ll schedule regular follow-ups to monitor your progress and adjust your treatment as necessary.

Menopause is a natural stage of life, but problematic symptoms aren’t something you must endure without help. If menopause symptoms are impacting your daily life, rely on Sussex Premier Health for treatment. Contact us today to schedule a consultation in Sussex.