Common symptoms of perimenopause include changes in periods, mood changes such as new or increased anxiety and irritability, low mood, joint pains, trouble sleeping, weight gain, changes in libido, hot flushes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and bladder issues, brain fog and memory changes. At Juno Specialists, Dr Cassie Kenna works closely with women to explore all available management options. This includes discussing lifestyle adjustments, non-hormonal medications, and importantly, menopausal hormone therapy (MHT). The goal is to provide personalised information so women can make informed decisions about the best approach for their individual needs.

Symptoms of perimenopause can overlap with other medical conditions such as thyroid disorders or anxiety, making diagnosis a bit challenging. At Juno Specialists, we take the time to carefully assess your symptoms and may recommend tests to rule out other causes. Sometimes, we also use a trial of menopausal hormone therapy (if it’s safe for you) to see if your symptoms improve. If the therapy helps, it’s a strong indication that hormones are involved. If not, we explore other possible causes and treatment options to best support your health.

At Juno Specialists, we offer a range of personalised treatment options to support women through menopause. Lifestyle recommendations such as diet, exercise, and stress management are important parts of care. For symptom relief, non-hormonal medications are available, but the most effective treatment is often menopausal hormone therapy (MHT). Most women are suitable for hormone therapy, though occasionally someone may not be, and in those cases, we explore other options. Our goal is to tailor treatment to each woman’s unique needs and health profile, helping you make informed decisions to manage your symptoms and maintain wellbeing during this transition.

For some women, mood changes like anxiety or low mood may be their main or only symptom during menopause. Those with a history of hormonal mood issues—such as PMS or postnatal mood disorders—may be more affected. At Juno Specialists, we support women through a combination of medical options, including hormone therapy or non-hormonal treatments like antidepressants when appropriate. Lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, and stress management are also key components of care. Additionally, we often recommend psychological support to complement medical treatments, helping women navigate this transition holistically.

Every woman experiences perimenopause differently, but a key sign is changes in menstrual cycle length. This means the time between periods may become shorter or longer. Some women may notice heavier or longer periods, while others may experience irregular or more frequent bleeding. Because these changes can vary widely, it’s important to seek medical advice if you’re under 45 and notice any changes in your periods. Also, if you experience heavy, prolonged, or irregular bleeding, you should consult a healthcare professional to rule out other causes and get appropriate care.

Menopause is a natural transition, a proportion of women experience moderate to severe symptoms that can significantly affect their daily lives, work, and family roles. While many women may not require treatment, for those who do, effective and safe options are available. Recognising menopause as an important health phase means women can access the support and care they need to maintain their wellbeing and quality of life, rather than suffering in silence.