Perimenopause and Menopause — Caring for Your Wellbeing Through the Transition
- Dr Sarah Saw
- 1 day ago
- 2 min read
Perimenopause and menopause are a major life transition, and they deserve proper attention. With the right information and support, this stage of life can be a turning point for your long-term wellbeing — a chance to invest in your health, energy, and how you feel in your body for the decades ahead.
What is perimenopause?
Perimenopause is the hormonal transition leading up to your final period. It can begin in your late 30s or early 40s, often well before periods become irregular, and can last anywhere from one to ten years. Menopause itself is the day twelve months after your last period. The average age in Australia is 51.
What symptoms should I look out for?
Far more than hot flushes. Common symptoms include disrupted sleep, anxiety, low mood, brain fog, joint aches, palpitations, irregular periods, weight changes, vaginal dryness, recurrent UTIs, and reduced libido. The brain often registers the change first — many women describe new anxiety or "not feeling like myself" years before periods change.
Do I need blood tests?
Usually not. In women over 45 with typical symptoms, perimenopause and menopause are diagnosed clinically. Hormone levels fluctuate so much that a "normal" blood test on any given day does not rule it out.
Why does this matter for long-term health?
The drop in oestrogen at menopause influences more than how you feel day-to-day. It affects bone density, cardiovascular health, and metabolic health over time. The years around menopause are one of the most important windows to invest in your long-term wellbeing.
What are my options?
There is more help available than ever. For most women under 60 or within 10 years of menopause, the benefits of menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) outweigh the risks. Options include MHT, vaginal oestrogen, non-hormonal medication, and lifestyle foundations such as strength training, good nutrition and sleep. Speak to your GP about suitable options for you.
Book Now
Menopause care does not fit into a 15-minute slot. Call our reception team on (02) 9498 1888 to book a long appointment with one of our GPs.
Gordon Village General Practice — caring for the community since 1930.
Tags: perimenopause, menopause, women's health, MHT, HRT, midlife health, hormone therapy, women's health Gordon NSW
