What Is Postmenopause?
Postmenopause is the stage after menopause. Once you have gone 12 months without a period, you are considered postmenopausal. This stage continues for the rest of life, and some symptoms or health changes may still need attention.
Perimenopause
The transition before menopause, when hormone levels fluctuate and symptoms may begin.
Menopause
The point reached once you have gone 12 months without a period.
Postmenopause
The years after menopause, when symptoms and longer-term health changes may continue.
Premature Ovarian Insufficiency
When ovarian function declines before the age of 40.
Induced Menopause
Menopause caused by surgery or medical treatment affecting the ovaries.
Postmenopause is life after menopause
Once you have reached menopause, everything after that point is called postmenopause. Hormone levels remain lower than in the reproductive years, and for many women the effects of that hormonal change become more noticeable over time.
Some women feel much better once periods have stopped. Others continue to experience symptoms that affect sleep, confidence, relationships, comfort or overall quality of life.
Symptoms may continue
Hot flushes, sleep changes, fatigue, low mood, vaginal dryness and joint pain can all still be part of postmenopause.
Long-term health matters too
Bone health, heart health, vaginal and urinary health may all become more important in this stage.
At a glance
- Postmenopause begins after 12 months without a period.
- This stage continues for the rest of life.
- Some symptoms improve, while others continue or become more noticeable.
- Longer-term health considerations become increasingly relevant.
Common symptoms or concerns in postmenopause
Postmenopause is not only about whether periods have stopped. It is also about how you feel, how well you are sleeping, your comfort, your energy, and how well supported you feel in this stage of life.
Wondering if this could be affecting you?
If you are noticing symptoms and are not sure whether they may be related to perimenopause or menopause, our tools can help you take the next step.
Related stages and topics
Understanding the wider menopause transition can help make symptoms and timing easier to make sense of.
Not sure where you are in the menopause transition?
You do not need to work it out on your own. Our pathway is designed to help you better understand your symptoms and take the next step with confidence.
Symptoms Checker
Start with a quick check of the symptoms you are experiencing.
Go to checkerQuestionnaire
Complete a more detailed questionnaire to explore your symptoms further.
Start questionnaireBook a consult
Speak with a menopause-focused clinician about treatment and support options.
Book now