Why it's vital to know the 48 shades of menopause

Understanding the vast variety of symptoms means you can better seek help. A new online community aims to support women going through 'the change'

- CATHERINE FOREST

THE menopause is often called “the change" - and it's no wonder. Plummeting oestrogen can trigger dozens of diverse symptoms including hot flushes, night sweats and mood swings. But do you know all 48 shades of the menopause and how to handle them?

According to research by M-Club - a new online community that provides tailored products, information and support for women at this time of life - two in five don't fully understand the impact it has on body and mind.

And 46 per cent of women have never heard of perimenopause, the time leading up to periods ending, when oestrogen and testosterone levels begin to fall and symptoms start or, in some cases, peak.