Overview

• Analysis of over 5,500 women by Monash University found 37.3% in late perimenopause reported moderate to severe hot flushes, making vasomotor symptoms the defining sign of the transition
• Women with regular menstrual cycles but experiencing hot flushes and vaginal dryness showed symptom severity on par with those in late perimenopause, challenging cycle irregularity as the earliest indicator
• Prof Susan Davis and Dr Rakib Islam advocate a symptom-led diagnostic model to enable earlier recognition of perimenopause and more timely clinical intervention
• Postmenopause, defined by 12 consecutive months without a period, brings sustained low oestrogen and progesterone levels that heighten risks of osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes and urogenital issues
• Dr Naomi Potter underscores that tailored hormone replacement therapy remains safe and effective well into postmenopause for bone density, heart health and cognitive support when combined with lifestyle measures