Temperature & sleep
- Hot flushes and night sweats
- Disturbed sleep or insomnia
- Low energy
Home / Menopause explained
Menopause explained
Understand the changes.
Find your way forward.
Menopause is a natural life stage. Your experience of it is personal — and support is available.
Learn what menopause means, recognise common symptoms and explore the options you can discuss with your clinician.
No GP referral needed · In-person care in Tallow
Understanding your body
What is menopause?
Menopause happens as the ovaries produce less oestrogen and periods stop. It usually occurs between ages 45 and 55; the average age in Ireland is 51. The natural menopause is identified after 12 months without a period, provided there is no other explanation.
During perimenopause, hormone levels change and symptoms can develop years before periods end. Oestrogen also has a role beyond the menstrual cycle, including supporting bone health. Menopause can affect physical health, mood, sleep and everyday life.
Menopause can happen earlier, including after some medical treatments or removal of the ovaries. If you notice symptoms before age 45, speak with your GP.
Further reading: HSE menopause overview.
Recognising your experience
More than hot flushes.
Symptoms vary from person to person. They can affect relationships, work and wellbeing, as well as how you feel physically.
Mood & concentration
- Low mood and anxiety
- Memory or concentration changes
- “Brain fog”
Body & comfort
- Joint aches and headaches
- Palpitations
- Changes in period pattern or flow
Intimate & urinary health
- Vaginal dryness or discomfort
- Reduced sexual desire
- Urinary symptoms or recurring UTIs
The HSE reports that about 8 in 10 women experience symptoms around menopause. Their severity and duration vary. Read the HSE symptom guidance.
These symptoms can have other causes too. A conversation with your clinician can help you understand what is happening.
A useful starting point
Put your experience into words.
Use the symptom scorecard to record what you notice and how it affects your day. Bring it to your appointment to help guide the conversation.
Your choices, explained
Support shaped around you.
You do not need to wait until your periods stop to ask for help with symptoms.
Hormone replacement therapy
HRT can relieve menopause and perimenopause symptoms. Your clinician can discuss the benefits, risks and types available in the context of your symptoms and medical history.
Explore our HRT guide ↗Other treatment options
Non-hormonal treatments and menopause-specific cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) may help with particular symptoms. Vaginal symptoms can also be treated directly. We can discuss suitable options if you prefer not to use HRT or cannot take it.
Everyday wellbeing
Physical activity, eating well and support for sleep and emotional wellbeing can form part of your care. Talk to your clinician before trying herbal or complementary remedies: their safety and effectiveness can vary.
Learn more: HSE treatment options and NICE menopause guidance.
When to get help
You do not have to work it out alone.
If symptoms are worrying you or affecting daily life, speak with your GP or a clinician experienced in menopause care. You do not need to have every symptom to start that conversation.
Bleeding after menopause?
Contact your GP if you have vaginal bleeding after menopause, even if it happens only once or is just spotting. It needs assessment.
Keep learning
Trusted information, at your pace.
Understanding perimenopauseExplore the transition before menopause ↗Irish College of GPsMenopause patient information ↗The Menopause CharityInformation and support ↗
General information to help you prepare for a conversation with your clinician. Sources checked in September 2026.