Do I have to treat menopause symptoms?

No. Treatment is a personal choice, usually considered when symptoms bother you. Some people manage well with lifestyle measures; others choose medical options. It's decided with a clinician.

Are there non-hormonal options?

Yes. There are both hormonal and non-hormonal approaches. Which suits you depends on your symptoms, health and preferences, a specialist can talk through the options.

Menopause Symptoms & Management

Menopause symptoms and management

Menopause affects people very differently, some have few symptoms, others find them disruptive. The good news is that bothersome symptoms can usually be managed.

This page outlines the common symptoms and the broad approaches to managing them, so you can have an informed conversation about what might suit you.

Key points

Menopause symptoms vary widely from person to person.
Many symptoms can be managed if they're bothering you.
Approaches include lifestyle measures, hormonal and non-hormonal options.
The right approach is individual and decided with a clinician.

Last reviewed 30 June 2026

Common symptoms

Symptoms are linked to changing hormone levels and vary in how much they affect people.

Hot flushes and night sweats
Sleep disturbance
Mood changes
Vaginal dryness and changes to sex
Joint aches and changes in concentration

Broad management approaches

Management is individual and often combines several elements, decided together with a clinician. Options are framed as choices, there's no single right answer for everyone.

Lifestyle measures (sleep, activity, managing triggers)
Menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) for suitable candidates
Non-hormonal medical options
Targeted treatment for vaginal or urinary symptoms

When to see a specialist

If symptoms are affecting your quality of life, or you'd like to understand your options, a specialist can help you build a plan suited to your health and preferences.