Menopause Symptoms & Support
Understanding perimenopause and menopause
Menopause and perimenopause can bring a wide range of physical, emotional, and mental changes — many of which aren't talked about enough.
If you're experiencing symptoms that feel confusing, unexpected, or difficult to explain, you're not alone. This page offers a gentle overview of common menopause symptoms, what perimenopause and menopause are, and where support can help.
What is perimenopause?
Perimenopause is the transition phase leading up to menopause. It can begin several years before periods stop completely, often in your late 30s or 40s, though this varies widely.
During perimenopause, hormone levels — particularly oestrogen and progesterone — fluctuate rather than steadily decline. These fluctuations are often what cause symptoms to feel unpredictable or inconsistent.
- • Periods may become irregular, heavier, lighter, closer together, or further apart.
- • Symptoms can come and go, sometimes changing month to month.
What is menopause?
Menopause is defined as the point when you have not had a menstrual period for 12 consecutive months. After this point, you are considered post-menopausal.
Hormone levels settle at a lower level, which can still affect energy, sleep, mood, skin, joints, and overall wellbeing. Some symptoms ease after menopause, while others may continue or change over time.
Both perimenopause and menopause are natural life stages — but that doesn't mean they're easy or should be managed alone.
Common menopause and perimenopause symptoms
Menopause symptoms can look different for everyone. You may experience a few, many, or none at all — and they don't always follow a clear pattern.
Hot flushes & night sweats
Sudden feelings of heat, flushing, or sweating are among the most well-known menopause symptoms. Night sweats can disrupt sleep and leave you feeling exhausted the next day.
Fatigue & low energy
Persistent tiredness is very common during perimenopause and menopause. Even after a full night's sleep, energy levels may feel lower or less predictable than before.
Sleep disruption
Difficulty falling asleep, waking during the night, or early morning waking can all occur. Sleep changes are often linked to night sweats, anxiety, or hormonal shifts.
Brain fog & concentration changes
Many women notice changes in memory, focus, or mental clarity. This is often described as "brain fog" and can affect confidence at work or in daily life.
Anxiety, low mood & emotional changes
Hormonal fluctuations can influence mood, making anxiety, irritability, low mood, or emotional sensitivity more noticeable — sometimes without an obvious trigger.
Joint pain & muscle aches
Stiffness, aching joints, or muscle discomfort are common but less talked-about menopause symptoms. These changes can affect mobility and daily comfort.
Digestive changes
Bloating, constipation, or changes in digestion can occur during perimenopause and menopause, sometimes linked to hormonal shifts or stress.
Skin & hair changes
Skin may feel drier, more sensitive, or less resilient. Hair texture and thickness can also change over time, alongside shifts in body composition.
Changes in appetite or cravings
Some women notice changes in appetite, cravings, or how their body responds to food. These shifts can feel frustrating, especially when advice is conflicting.
A gentle reassurance
Menopause symptoms are often misunderstood or minimised — but they are real, common, and valid.
Experiencing these changes does not mean something is wrong with you. It means your body is adjusting to a new hormonal phase.
Support looks different for everyone, and there's no single "right" way to navigate this stage of life.
Where Menoflow fits
Many women find it helpful to have gentle, practical support alongside medical care.
Menoflow offers menopause-aware support through:
- • Nourishing, non-diet recipes
- • Downloadable guides and checklists
- • Skincare and wellbeing information
- • Calm reassurance for everyday life
You can explore:
Flo by Menoflow — our online membership offering ongoing guidance and resources
The Menoflow Box — a physical subscription box designed to offer comfort and support at home
Both are designed to complement, not replace, professional healthcare.
Frequently Asked Questions
When to seek medical advice
If symptoms are severe, sudden, or affecting your quality of life, it's important to speak with a healthcare professional. Menopause care is personal, and medical support can be an important part of your journey.
A note from Menoflow
Menopause isn't something to push through quietly.
Understanding what's happening can be a powerful first step toward feeling more supported.
You're not imagining this — and you don't have to manage it alone.
Disclaimer: This information is provided for general education and wellbeing support only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.