I’m mid 45 and just realised I have a clue about the menopause!

[Pinkpeony1]

I’ve a few friends and family members currently starting menopause. I know your periods stop over time, you get hot flushes, night sweats, a bit hairy and can put on weight. Sounds great!
But is that it really? Plus, I’ve been taking cerazette for years and don’t have periods, thank goodness. How will I know if I’m menopausal? Will I have to stop taking it?? I adore not having periods and don’t plan on ever going back.
I haven’t a clue really, any websites to recommend or anything?
Thanks.

If it works for you then just keep taking it.

www.nhs.uk/conditions/contraception/menopause-contraceptive-pill/

I think most drs will advise stopping the Pill at 50 simply because of added stroke risk after that age even the mini pill.

You might also find that using progesterone only increases meno symptoms (hot flushes etc) when your estrogen drops when you reach menopause.

The website of Dr Louise Newson has loads of info.

Some family planning clinics also run menopause clinics, and IMO sometimes have more advice and options available than your GP. They often have time to go through options and could also discuss lower risk contraception options if you aren't currently peri-menopausal.

The age your mum started menopause, is often a good indicator of when you will start too- so check if you can.

You will still get hot flushes etc as you aren't taking a pill with estrogen in it.

Also, weight gain, mood swings, dry skin and hair, dry vagina, maybe bladder issues...the list goes on. :)

Menopause Support on FB is excellent, run by doctors it explains everything to know. Tells you how to access NICE guidelines to discuss it with your GP. It's surprising how many GPs are not up to date with guidelines. I visited a private menopause specialist because I felt I wasn't getting the full information. Also the Vaginal Atrophy FB is excellent. Many women think this is something they have to put up with, but you don't.

@Flowersmakemyday The NICE meno guidelines are pinned at the top of this forum; i campaigned on this forum for them to be here.

Thanks ladies, plenty to go on there.
Something to look forward to....right?!