Menopause and Your Health: When to See a GP and What to Expect

Menopause is a natural stage of life, but that doesn’t mean you have to suffer through it in silence. While some changes are manageable, others can seriously affect your well-being.

The question is, when should you see a doctor? Many people put off seeking medical advice, assuming symptoms are just part of the process. But if menopause is making daily life harder than it should be, a GP can help.

Understanding Menopause: More Than Just Hot Flushes

Menopause happens when oestrogen levels drop, and periods stop permanently. It usually occurs between 45 and 55, but for some, it happens earlier or later. Symptoms vary widely—some breeze through it, while others face severe disruptions to their daily lives.

Hot flushes and night sweats are well-known, but menopause can also bring mood swings, joint pain, brain fog, fatigue, and even heart palpitations. While many of these symptoms are common, that doesn’t mean they should be ignored, especially if they’re affecting your health and happiness. Booking an appointment with a Brisbane GP is the best thing you can do.

When to See a GP About Menopause

Not every symptom requires a doctor’s visit, but some signs mean it’s time to get checked out. If any of the following are disrupting your life, book an appointment sooner rather than later:

Severe Mood Changes – If anxiety, depression, or mood swings feel overwhelming, it’s time to talk to a professional. Menopause can impact mental health, and support is available.
Heavy or Irregular Bleeding – If your periods suddenly become much heavier, last longer, or return after stopping for months, a GP should investigate. Abnormal bleeding can have other causes that need to be ruled out.
Chronic Fatigue or Brain Fog – Feeling constantly exhausted or struggling with memory and concentration? Hormonal changes can play a role, but underlying conditions like thyroid issues should be checked too.
Painful Intercourse or Vaginal Dryness – This is common but often not talked about. If it’s causing discomfort or affecting intimacy, treatment options like vaginal oestrogen can help.
Bladder Issues – Frequent urinary tract infections, incontinence, or needing to go to the toilet more often than usual can be linked to menopause. A GP can offer solutions.
Bone or Joint Pain – Oestrogen helps protect bones, so menopause increases the risk of osteoporosis. If you’re experiencing persistent aches or stiffness, get checked.
Heart Palpitations – These can be unsettling and might be linked to menopause, but they can also indicate other health concerns that need attention.

What Happens at a GP Appointment?

Many people worry about seeing a doctor for menopause symptoms, but there’s no need to. GPs are well-trained to help, and there are more options than ever for managing symptoms. Here’s what you can expect:

A Discussion About Symptoms – Be open about what you’re experiencing, even if it feels awkward. The more detail you give, the better the advice.
Blood Tests (Sometimes) – If menopause symptoms appear before 45, blood tests may be done to check hormone levels. Otherwise, diagnosis is usually based on symptoms.
Lifestyle Advice – Your doctor may discuss diet, exercise, and stress management to help ease symptoms naturally.
Treatment Options – This may include Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), non-hormonal treatments, or other medications depending on your symptoms and medical history.
Health Checks – Depending on your age and risk factors, your GP may check blood pressure, cholesterol, or bone health.

Should You Consider HRT?

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) replaces the oestrogen that drops during menopause, helping to ease symptoms. It’s highly effective for hot flushes, mood swings, joint pain, and even protecting bone health. Despite old concerns about risks, modern research shows that for most, the benefits outweigh the risks.

If you’re unsure whether HRT is right for you, a GP can guide you based on your personal health history. If HRT isn’t an option or isn’t your preference, there are alternatives, including lifestyle changes, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), and certain medications that can help.

Lifestyle Changes That Can Make a Difference

Alongside medical support, small lifestyle changes can ease menopause symptoms and improve overall health.

Diet Matters – Eating a balanced diet rich in calcium, vitamin D, and healthy fats can support bone and heart health.
Stay Active – Regular exercise can boost mood, maintain muscle strength, and improve sleep. Weight-bearing exercises help protect bones.
Prioritise Sleep – Sleep issues are common during menopause. Sticking to a routine, avoiding screens before bed, and managing stress can help.
Manage Stress – Meditation, yoga, deep breathing, or even a daily walk can reduce anxiety and balance emotions.
Stay Hydrated – Drinking enough water can help with dry skin, joint pain, and even energy levels.

You Deserve Support

Menopause is a major life stage, but that doesn’t mean you should just push through it without help. If symptoms are making life difficult, a GP can offer guidance, reassurance, and treatment options to improve your quality of life.

Whether it’s HRT, lifestyle changes, or symptom-specific solutions, there are many ways to navigate menopause with confidence. You don’t have to do it alone—seeking support is a step toward feeling like yourself again.