Menopause is not a single moment in time, but a transition that can affect your physical health, emotional wellbeing, confidence, and quality of life for many years.

Menopause is a natural stage of ageing that every woman will experience, usually around the age of 51. However, hormonal changes often begin much earlier. Many women experience symptoms for several years during perimenopause, when fluctuating oestrogen and progesterone levels can cause significant disruption to daily life.

While some women move through menopause with minimal difficulty, many experience symptoms that are challenging and persistent. These may include hot flushes and night sweats, joint and muscle pain, fatigue, sleep disturbance, brain fog, mood changes, anxiety, low mood, reduced libido, vaginal dryness, recurrent urinary infections, and changes in weight and skin or hair. Menstrual cycles may become irregular — lighter or heavier — before stopping completely. Menopause is defined as having no periods for 12 months.

Around 80% of women experience menopausal symptoms that affect their quality of life, and for approximately one in four women, these symptoms are severe. Despite this, many women feel unheard, dismissed, or unsure where to turn for specialist support.

Dr Alba Pereira offers specialist menopause care focused on listening, understanding, and personalised treatment. She holds an Advanced Certificate from the British Menopause Society, ensuring your care is grounded in the most up-to-date, evidence-based guidance. Appointments are unhurried, giving you the time and space to discuss your symptoms, concerns, and health goals in full.

Your care plan is tailored to you and may include appropriate investigations, lifestyle guidance, Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) where suitable, and non-hormonal treatment options — always considering your symptoms, medical history, and long-term health.

Early, informed management of perimenopause and menopause can make a meaningful difference. Addressing hormonal changes promptly can help reduce future risks such as cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis, while supporting energy, mental clarity, confidence, and overall wellbeing.

Dr Pereira’s approach is centred on helping you feel informed, supported, and confident in your decisions — so you can move through menopause feeling well, strong, and in control of your health.