Yorkshire Menopause Group

The Leeds Guidelines for the Management of the Menopause

The Menopause

Definition
The menopause is the time of the last menstrual period. The perimenopause is the period of time before and after the menopause when ovarian function is declining. The average age of the menopause is 51 years. Symptoms typically occur between the ages of 45 and 55 years of age and usually last for 2 to 5 years.

Menopausal Symptoms

Early symptoms

Irregular menstrual cycle
Hot flushes/Night sweats
Insomnia
Mood swings/Irritability
Anxiety/Panic attacks
Poor memory/concentration
Joint/ muscle pains
Loss of self-esteem
Atrophic vaginitis
Urethral syndrome
Loss of libido
Dry hair and skin

Longterm consequences

Osteoporosis
Coronary heart disease
Alzheimer's disease

Many women are able to cope with menopausal symptoms given reassurance, support and self-help measures, e.g. loose cotton clothing, and avoiding spicy foods, can help with hot flushes.

Lifestyle Advice

Regular weight bearing exercise (e.g. walking, stepping, running) to reduce the risk of developing osteoporosis
Aerobic exercise to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease
Stop smoking
Limit alcohol intake to 14 units per week
Calcium-rich diet*