Dr Preeya answers the internet’s most searched Menopause questions

ARTICLE

1 October 2025

4 min read

Most searched menopause questions, answered by Dr Preeya

The internet has become our go-to source for health information. But with so much data, opinion, and advice available, knowing which sources to trust can feel overwhelming. It’s no surprise that when we go searching for answers about menopause, many of us feel unsure about where to click and what to believe.

Let's cut through the confusion. Here are answers to some of the most searched menopause questions and trending topics. Remember, your GP is always your best source of health advice as you navigate this very natural life stage.

Search Question #1: What’s the difference between perimenopause and menopause?

Perimenopause is a transitional stage before menopause, where a woman’s reproductive hormones like oestrogen fluctuate. Perimenopause can last between 4-8 years and, while some people experience a range of symptoms from mood swings to irregular periods, others may experience none. Menopause, on the other hand, is the point when a woman has not had a menstrual period for 12 months, marking the end of her reproductive cycle.

Search Question #2: What are the types of perimenopause and menopause symptoms?

There are many! People experiencing perimenopause and menopause may report symptoms like hot flushes, sleep disturbances, heavy vaginal bleeding and brain fog. Skin changes, irritability (and other mood changes), vaginal dryness, changes to libido, and joint aches can also occur.

The key thing to remember is that no two menopause experiences are the same and the symptoms can vary between individuals. The Australasian Menopause Society’s (AMS) Symptom Score Card¹ is a great tool I use with patients to attain a thorough overview of the patient’s symptoms and their response to different interventions we may trial.

Search Question #3: How does menopause affect mental health?

Menopause can have a significant impact on mental health for a number of reasons. Symptoms like hot flushes and night sweats can disrupt sleep and affect the mood. Skin sensitivities and shifts in libido can also impact psychological wellbeing.

Many women also navigate this stage of life between work, family and caregiving for their ageing parents – all of which may add to the mental load. That’s why I encourage patients to try and maintain their mental wellbeing with whatever tools they have available. Lifestyle interventions like regular movement, eating a balanced diet high in fruit and vegetables and seeking psychological support or medication when needed can make a real difference.

Be a do-er for your mental health and earn AIA Vitality Points in the process!

Did you know you can earn up to 3,000 AIA Vitality Points each year just by doing it for your mental health?

Whether it’s a breathing exercise with Headspace or reading evidence-based content with Groov, simply log in to AIA Vitality, try one of our amazing partner apps and unlock AIA Vitality Points as you go. Remember: everything we do for our mental health helps us experience more of what matters. So go on, Do It For Life.

Search Question #4: How do I stop hot flushes?

Small lifestyle changes like carrying a fan, dressing in lighter clothing and limiting common triggers such as alcohol, spicy foods and caffeine can help some.

There are also medication options. There is some limited evidence supporting the effectiveness of natural therapies², but menopause hormone therapy (MHT) remains an effective treatment for many. If this isn’t an option for you (due to preference of medical history), certain antidepressants can also be effective. Just be sure to speak to your doctor first. They’ll be able to walk you through all your options and help find a solution that’s right for you.

Search Question #5: Can I still get pregnant?

Yes, you can still get pregnant during the perimenopausal phase. While your periods may be irregular, you may still be ovulating (releasing an egg from the ovary). The Australasian Menopause Society recommends women under 50 use contraception for two years after their last menstrual period. After 50, pregnancy is unlikely.

Search Question #6: What menopause treatments are available?

There’s no one-size-fits-all treatment when it comes to menopause, it all comes down to your individual needs and health history. For example, if vaginal dryness or urinary symptoms are your main concern, vaginal oestrogen can be highly effective, while those experiencing multiple symptoms may find MHT to be a better fit. Your doctor should be able to guide you to the best treatment options based on your needs and your medical history.

Question #7: What else do I need to know about menopause?

As menopause can mark a rise in the risk for chronic conditions like heart disease, osteoporosis and some cancers,³ it’s a great reminder to take a broader look at your health by keeping up to date with annual check-ups. I'd be asking myself:

Am I up to date with cervical and breast cancer screenings?
Have I had my blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar checked recently?
Has my bone health been assessed?

While it can seem like a lot of life admin, annual health checks really do go a long way in supporting our overall wellbeing. And if you're an AIA Vitality member, you can earn AIA Vitality Points for completing eligible health checks.

Search Question #8: How do I get support during menopause?

Menopause affects everyone differently but having a solid foundation of emotional and professional support can make a world of difference. My top tips?

Find a qualified health professional who can work with you on the journey.
Use reliable and evidence-based resources to help guide you, such as Jean Hailes and AMS.
Talk about your experience with friends and loved ones. Being able to share and find shared understanding in others can reduce the isolation and emotional turbulence often experienced during menopause.

Menopause is a natural phase of life, but that doesn’t mean you have to navigate it alone or without support. With the right information and guidance, you can manage your symptoms and feel in control through every stage. For more information visit: https://menopause.org.au/health-info.

Footnotes

¹ https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/health-a-z/menopause/menopause-management

² https://menopause.org.au/hp/information-sheets/ams-symptom-score-card

³ https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/menopause/

Dr Preeya Alexander

Dr Preeya Alexander is a general practitioner based in Melbourne and our resident AIA Vitality Expert. She’s passionate about improving health and wellbeing literacy for all Australians. A prominent expert health educator, Preeya has featured across a range of TV, news and digital media, as well as running her own successful blog, The Wholesome Doctor.

Disclaimer:
Copyright © 2025 AIA Australia Limited (ABN 79 004 837 861 AFSL 230043). This is general information only, without taking into account factors like the objectives, financial situation, needs or personal circumstances of any individual and is not intended to be financial, legal, tax, medical, nutritional, health, fitness or other advice. The source information of the articles is current as of the date of publication and may be subject to change. While the information contained herein is believed to be accurate, AIA Australia expressly disclaims any and all liability for representations or warranties, expressed or implied, contained in, or for omissions from, the information.

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