Menopause

    At Mayo Clinic Healthcare in London, our endocrinology specialists assess and provide menopause treatment, helping women understand changes in their health and wellbeing during this natural stage of life. Using a comprehensive clinical assessment alongside advanced diagnostic testing where appropriate, our team evaluates your symptoms, excludes other possible causes and develops a personalised treatment plan to help you manage menopausal symptoms and support your long-term health.

    • Menopause is the natural stage in a woman's life when menstrual periods permanently stop due to a decline in ovarian function and hormone production, particularly oestrogen. It is diagnosed after 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period when there is no other medical explanation. Most women experience menopause between the ages of 45 and 55, although it can occur earlier or later.

      The transition leading up to menopause, known as perimenopause, may last several years and is often when symptoms first develop. While menopause is a normal part of aging, symptoms vary considerably and can significantly affect quality of life for some women.

    • Menopause can cause a wide range of physical, emotional and cognitive symptoms. Some women experience only mild changes, while others find symptoms have a significant impact on their daily lives.

      Symptoms of menopause may include:

      • Hot flushes
      • Night sweats
      • Irregular menstrual periods during perimenopause
      • Vaginal dryness
      • Pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse
      • Reduced libido
      • Mood changes, including anxiety or low mood
      • Difficulty sleeping or insomnia
      • Fatigue
      • Problems with memory or concentration ("brain fog")
      • Joint or muscle aches
      • Headaches
      • Recurrent urinary tract infections or urinary symptoms

      If menopausal symptoms are severe, begin before the age of 45, or interfere with your work, sleep, relationships or overall wellbeing, it is important to seek medical advice. Some symptoms associated with menopause can also occur in other medical conditions, making a thorough assessment important to establish the correct diagnosis and recommend appropriate treatment.

    • Menopause occurs when the ovaries gradually produce lower levels of reproductive hormones, particularly oestrogen and progesterone. As hormone levels decline, ovulation eventually stops and menstruation comes to an end.

      Several factors can influence when menopause occurs, including:

      • Natural ageing
      • Family history
      • Premature ovarian insufficiency
      • Certain medical treatments, including chemotherapy or radiotherapy
      • Surgical removal of both ovaries
      • Smoking, which may contribute to an earlier menopause

      Because menopausal symptoms can overlap with symptoms of thyroid disorders and other hormonal conditions, an endocrinology assessment may be recommended to ensure an accurate diagnosis. Depending on your symptoms, your consultant may also work closely with colleagues across other specialties to provide comprehensive care.

    • At Mayo Clinic Healthcare, our endocrinology consultants take time to understand your symptoms, medical history, menstrual history and overall health before recommending any investigations. Many women can be diagnosed clinically based on their symptoms and age, while additional testing may be appropriate in certain circumstances.

      Investigations may include:

      • Blood tests to evaluate hormone levels when clinically appropriate, particularly in younger women or when the diagnosis is uncertain
      • Thyroid function tests to exclude thyroid conditions that can cause similar symptoms
      • Bone health assessment when there are concerns about osteoporosis or fracture risk
      • Cardiovascular risk assessment to evaluate factors that may influence long-term heart health
      • Additional laboratory tests where clinically appropriate to investigate other possible causes of symptoms

      Not every patient will require every investigation. Your consultant will recommend the most appropriate assessment based on your individual circumstances.

    • Management of menopause is tailored to your symptoms, medical history, lifestyle and personal preferences. The aim is to reduce symptoms, improve quality of life and support your long-term health.

      Treatment options may include:

      • Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) 
      • Non-hormonal medicines to help manage symptoms
      • Treatment for vaginal dryness and genitourinary symptoms
      • Lifestyle advice covering nutrition, exercise, sleep and weight management
      • Bone health management, including calcium, vitamin D and osteoporosis prevention where appropriate
      • Advice on cardiovascular health and risk reduction
      • Ongoing monitoring and review to ensure your treatment continues to meet your needs

      Your Mayo Clinic Healthcare specialist will work closely with you to develop an individualised management plan, reviewing your treatment regularly and adjusting recommendations as your needs change.

    • At Mayo Clinic Healthcare, patients benefit from internationally recognised expertise delivered in the heart of central London. Our consultants work collaboratively across specialties to provide comprehensive, evidence-based care tailored to each individual.

      We combine detailed clinical assessment with advanced diagnostic capabilities to provide an accurate understanding of your symptoms and develop a personalised management plan designed to support your health both now and in the future.

    Private health insurance

    Mayo Clinic Healthcare works with all major private health insurance providers, including AXA PPP, Aviva, BUPA, Health Partners Group, Vitality Health and WPA. Self-pay arrangements are also available.

    Book a private assessment

    If you are experiencing symptoms of menopause or would like expert advice about managing the menopause transition, request an appointment with one of our endocrinology specialists at Mayo Clinic Healthcare or call +44 (0) 207 871 2575 to speak with our team.

    Our team will provide a comprehensive assessment and personalised recommendations to help you manage your menopause symptoms and support your long-term health. 

     

    Medically Reviewed by

    Dr Vanderpump, Consultant Endocrinologist