• Why see a gynaecologist after menopause, even if you have no periods or pain?

Menopause does not signal the end of gynaecological care. A gynaecologist assesses specific risks at this stage—vulvovaginal dryness and atrophy, loss of libido, urinary leakage, osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease—and can prescribe hormone therapy or suggest natural alternatives where appropriate.

• What is menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) and is it right for me?

MHT compensates for the drop in oestrogen. When started before age 60 or within ten years of menopause it is far safer than many realise, and can significantly reduce hot flushes, sleep problems, joint pain and vaginal dryness. It is not suitable for everyone, so an individual assessment is essential.

• What if I don’t want hormone therapy?

Non-hormonal options exist—phytotherapy, lubricants, local oestrogen treatments, or comprehensive care with other practitioners. Regular gynaecological follow-up remains vital to monitor bone, uterine and breast health.

• How can my GP help during this transition?

Your GP is often the first point of contact. They can review your overall symptoms (sleep, mood, pain), monitor blood tests (thyroid, cholesterol, blood sugar), coordinate your care, and refer you to the right specialists.

• Do I need a blood test to “check my hormones”?

Not necessarily. Menopause is diagnosed primarily through symptoms and the cessation of periods. A blood test can be useful if there is any doubt (e.g., suspected early menopause) or to investigate other issues such as thyroid function or nutrient deficiencies.

• What assessments should I consider?

A cardiovascular check-up, bone assessment (DEXA scan depending on age and risk factors), screening for diabetes or metabolic syndrome, and a review of vaccinations and mental health.

• How can nutrition and lifestyle help during perimenopause and menopause?

Nutrition and lifestyle have a major impact on how you experience perimenopause and menopause. Hormonal changes make the body more sensitive to stress, poorer at regulating blood sugar, and more prone to inflammation. A diet rich in protein, healthy fats, fibre, and anti-inflammatory foods supports energy, mood, and metabolism. Daily movement, quality sleep, stress management, and respecting the circadian rhythm ease symptoms and protect long-term health.  

• Key nutrition and lifestyle levers for natural support

Protein, fibre, healthy fats, anti-inflammatory foods – stabilise energy, mood, and blood sugar. 
 Regular movement, restorative sleep, morning light, stress reduction – help balance hormones naturally.

• Weight gain after menopause – why and what to do

Falling oestrogen slows metabolism, shifts fat to the abdominal area, and promotes insulin resistance. Focus on strength training, higher protein intake, fewer fast carbs, and better sleep quality.

• Why your former diet no longer “works”

Your metabolism changes: you burn fewer calories at rest and handle carbohydrates less efficiently. What used to be enough no longer maintains hormonal, muscular, and glycaemic balance.

• Is intermittent fasting suitable during peri- and post-menopause?

Yes—if well tolerated. It can improve insulin sensitivity, lower inflammation, and aid weight loss. It is not ideal, however, for women with high stress, poor sleep, or a difficult relationship with food.

• Impact of chronic stress on hormones and menopausal symptoms

Elevated cortisol worsens hot flushes, abdominal weight gain, sleep disturbances, and irritability. It also taxes the endocrine system, increasing inflammation and instability.

• Protecting bone, cardiovascular, and cognitive health after menopause

Daily movement, adequate protein, omega-3s and calcium, limited alcohol and sugar, social engagement, good sleep, and avoiding smoking significantly cut the risks of fractures, stroke, cognitive decline, and heart attack.

• Why has my libido dropped when my relationship is fine?

Hormones do influence desire, but they’re not the only factor. Vaginal dryness, fatigue, pain, or a changed self-image can all dampen libido. Identifying the specific blocker lets you act on it—through sex therapy, lubricants, or local hormonal treatments, for instance.

• Is sexuality doomed after menopause?

Absolutely not—it simply evolves. Frequency may decrease, but quality can rise with more mindfulness, open dialogue, and exploration. A sexologist can help you (and/or your partner) rediscover pleasure.

• I’ve lost all desire. Is it always hormonal?

No. Desire is multifactorial: stress, mental load, self-esteem, and relationship quality all play a role. A holistic evaluation pinpoints the real obstacles and shows how to overcome them.

• Why do I feel on edge or no longer recognise myself?

Falling oestrogen lowers serotonin, a key mood neurotransmitter. This can heighten anxiety, negative thoughts, sleep problems, and irritability. It isn’t “all in your head” — it’s physiological, and it can be managed.

• Can seeing a psychologist really help?

Yes. Psychotherapy can address emotional upheaval, loss of bearings, mental fatigue, and the existential questions that often resurface at this stage (meaning, grief, shifting family roles).

• Is there a link between menopause and burnout?

Absolutely. Mental load and hormonal symptoms frequently compound each other. Specialised counselling can help put words to what you’re experiencing and build concrete solutions.

• Why do physiotherapy if nothing hurts?

Menopause affects your muscles, bones, pelvic floor, and posture. Physio can prevent pain, strengthen deep muscles (including the pelvic floor), improve posture, and restore overall balance.

• I have slight urinary leaks— is that normal?

Common, but not “normal.” Falling hormones weaken the pelvic floor. Targeted pelvic-floor rehab can greatly improve— and often resolve— the issue.

• Can I really regain tone or flexibility after 50?

Definitely. With a gradual, tailored programme you can see clear gains in strength, shape, self-confidence, and even mood.

• Why is osteopathy useful during menopause?

Osteopathy releases muscular and visceral tensions caused by stress, postural changes, or a sedentary lifestyle. It can ease joint pain, digestive issues, and backache—common complaints at this stage.

• Can osteopathy help me sleep better?

Yes. By working on the autonomic nervous system, diaphragm, and specific tension points, osteopathy promotes relaxation, improves breathing, and thereby enhances sleep quality.

• I feel “stuck” in my body—could this be hormonal?

Partly. Falling oestrogen increases joint stiffness, but lifestyle factors play a big role too. Osteopathy offers an excellent gateway to restoring movement in the body—and clarity in the mind.