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'

- By EMMA JOHNSON

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?

Research commissioned by M-Club - an online community that provides tailored products, information and support for women at this time of life - reveals two in five don't fully understand the impact it has on the body and mind. And 46% of women have never heard of perimenopause, which is the time leading up to periods ending, when levels of the oestrogen and testosterone begin to fall and symptoms start or, in some cases, peak. More than 15.5 million women in the UK are currently experiencing either the perimenopause or menopause at any one time, and GP Dr Gill Jenkins says: "Society often views women as invisible after their fertility stops. But this isn't the case.

"Menopause shouldn't be viewed as an illness. Instead, it's a life change we all need to embrace."

Dr Hilary Jones, an independent adviser to M-Club, adds: "Hormone Replacement Therapy is an option for menopausal women but fewer than half of women in perimenopause take HRT or intend to do so. Instead, they are seeking alternative support and natural solutions.