Menopause : Less Mystery, More Control
Menopause, Hormones & HRT
You’re not going crazy. It’s your hormones. And yes, there’s help.
Contrary to popular belief, many male GPs welcome the opportunity to talk to women about menopause and their options - including Dr Davies.
The Hormonal Shift No One Prepares You For
Perimenopause — the years leading up to menopause — can feel like someone swapped out your body, brain, and emotions for a malfunctioning substitute. And for many women, the worst part is not the hot flushes… it’s the invisible shift: anxiety, brain fog, fatigue, poor sleep, weight gain, libido changes, and feeling “off.”
It’s not in your head. It’s in your hormones — and we now understand it better than ever.
When Does It Start?
Perimenopause can begin in your 40s (or earlier), even while periods continue. It’s the erratic drop in oestrogen and progesterone that starts all the chaos.
Menopause is defined as 12 months after your final period (average age: 51).
Symptoms can last years, and up to 80% of women experience noticeable disruption.
What’s Happening to My Hormones?
Oestrogen drops — impacting brain, bones, bladder, and skin
Progesterone declines — worsening sleep and increasing anxiety
Testosterone also dips — reducing energy, strength, and libido
These changes affect everything from your thermostat to your neurotransmitters.
The Symptoms You Didn’t Expect
Hot flushes & night sweats
Sleep disturbance
Low libido
Anxiety, low mood, and ragey moods
Brain fog
Weight gain
Dryness (vaginal and skin)
Heart palpitations
Hair thinning, joint pain
If you feel like you’ve aged a decade in a year — you’re not imagining it.
What Can You Do About It?
Lifestyle First
Prioritise sleep: dark room, cool temp, wind-down routine
Strength training: helps with mood, weight, bone health
Cut down alcohol and sugar: both worsen hot flushes and mood
Omega-3s and magnesium: can improve sleep and mood
HRT: It’s Not What It Used to Be
Modern HRT is safe for most women under 60, particularly if started within 10 years of menopause.
Oestrogen (patches, gels, sprays or tablets)
Progesterone (if you still have a uterus)
Testosterone (off-label, but highly effective for libido and vitality)
Benefits:
Fewer flushes, better sleep
Improved mood and brain function
Stronger bones
Potential reduced heart disease risk when started early
Risks: Individualised — depends on personal/family history. That’s where medical advice comes in.
Supplements That May Support You
While not a substitute for HRT, some evidence-backed options include:
Magnesium glycinate – calming, improves sleep, may help with headaches
Ashwagandha – adaptogen that can reduce stress and cortisol
Black cohosh – some evidence for reducing hot flushes
Saffron extract – mild mood boost for some women
Omega-3s – support brain, joints, and cardiovascular health
Not every product is worth your money — I am always happy to go through which ones might be.
Even Medicare Is Paying Attention
In recognition of the huge impact menopause has on women’s health, the government is now funnelling millions into better care access — including new Medicare rebates for longer consultations and menopause-specific care. It’s finally being taken seriously.
Do I Need Blood Tests?
Sometimes yes, especially if:
You’re under 45
You’re still getting periods but having major symptoms
There are other issues to rule out (thyroid, iron, mood disorders)