Menopause is a natural biological transition, not a disease. Yet for many women it feels confusing, disruptive, and sometimes overwhelming. Hormonal shifts affect the brain, metabolism, sleep, mood, and cardiovascular system. If you are wondering about menopause, how long does it last, why hot flashes after menopause still happen, or whether symptoms of perimenopause at 44 are normal, this guide provides clear, evidence-based answers.

This blog is for women in their 30s, 40s, and 50s who want medically sound information, practical symptom management strategies, and guidance on when to seek professional support. It is also helpful for partners who want to understand men and menopause from a supportive perspective.

What Is Menopause

Menopause marks the point when you have not had a menstrual period for 12 consecutive months. The average age in the UK is 51. However, hormonal changes begin years earlier.

Clinically, menopause is divided into 3 stages:

1. Perimenopause

2. Menopause

3. Post menopausal stage

Understanding these stages of menopause helps you anticipate symptoms and respond early.

Stages of Menopause

1. Perimenopause

Perimenopause usually begins in the early to mid 40s, though some women notice signs earlier. Symptoms of perimenopause at 44 are extremely common and may include:

• Irregular cycles

• Heavy or lighter bleeding

• Mood changes

• Sleep disturbance

• Night sweats

• Brain fog

• Headaches

Oestrogen fluctuates unpredictably during this phase. That hormonal instability explains why symptoms can feel intense and inconsistent.

Signs of early menopause at 35 may indicate premature ovarian insufficiency. If periods stop before age 40, seek medical evaluation promptly.

2. Menopause

Menopause itself is a single point in time. It is confirmed after 12 months without a period. Hormone levels stabilize at lower levels after this point.

3. Post Menopausal Stage

Post menopausal refers to the years after menopause. Many symptoms improve, but some persist. Post menopausal symptoms may include:

• Vaginal dryness

• Reduced libido

• Joint stiffness

• Urinary changes

• Ongoing hot flashes

Understanding that post menopausal symptoms can continue helps set realistic expectations.

Menopause How Long Does It Last

Many women ask menopause how long it lasts. The answer depends on the stage.

• Perimenopause can last 4 to 8 years

• Vasomotor symptoms such as hot flashes often last 7 years on average

• Some women experience symptoms for more than 10 years

Hot flashes after menopause are not unusual. Around 30 percent of women report persistent flushing years after their final period.

Duration varies due to genetics, body composition, stress levels, and overall health.

Common Symptoms at Different Ages

Symptoms of Menopause at 52

At 52, many women are in early post menopausal years. Symptoms may include:

• Reduced energy

• Sleep disruption

• Weight redistribution around the abdomen

• Vaginal dryness

• Reduced skin elasticity

Symptoms of menopause at 52 often feel different from earlier hormonal fluctuations because hormones are now consistently low rather than fluctuating.

Menopause Headaches

Menopause headaches result from oestrogen withdrawal. Women prone to migraines often notice worsening during perimenopause and improvement after menopause.

Headache management includes:

• Blood sugar stabilisation

• Hydration

• Magnesium supplementation if clinically appropriate

• Hormone therapy when indicated

Menopause and Depression

Hormones influence serotonin and dopamine pathways. Menopause and depression frequently intersect, particularly during perimenopause.

Warning signs include:

• Persistent low mood

• Loss of interest

• Irritability

• Sleep disturbance

• Anxiety

Professional support is essential if symptoms interfere with daily life. Hormone therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy, and lifestyle interventions can all help.

Hot Flashes After Menopause

Hot flashes occur due to hypothalamic sensitivity triggered by oestrogen decline. Even in the post menopausal phase, the temperature regulation system may remain unstable.

Triggers include:

• Alcohol

• Caffeine

• Spicy food

• Stress

• Warm environments

Lifestyle adjustments combined with medical options can significantly reduce frequency and severity.

Cold Night Sweats

Cold night sweats describe episodes where sweating leaves you chilled afterward. These episodes disrupt sleep and may contribute to fatigue and mood changes.

Management strategies:

• Layered bedding

• Breathable cotton sleepwear

• Stable room temperature

• Stress reduction techniques

Persistent night sweats require medical review to rule out other causes.

ADHD Menopause Connection

Emerging research explores ADHD menopause interactions. Oestrogen supports dopamine regulation. As levels decline, women with ADHD may notice:

• Increased distractibility

• Memory lapses

• Executive dysfunction

• Emotional sensitivity

Hormone stabilisation, ADHD medication review, structured routines, and cognitive strategies often improve outcomes.

Blood After Menopause

Blood after menopause is not normal and must always be investigated. Causes range from benign polyps to endometrial hyperplasia or cancer. Immediate GP referral is essential.

Do not ignore post menopausal bleeding, even if it is light spotting.

Male Menopause Symptoms

While not identical to female menopause, declining testosterone in men can produce changes sometimes described as male menopause symptoms. These may include:

• Reduced libido

• Fatigue

• Mood changes

• Reduced muscle mass

This process is gradual and differs biologically from menopause, but men and menopause conversations matter for relationship understanding and shared wellbeing.

Early Menopause and Fertility

Signs of early menopause at 35 may include irregular periods, hot flashes, and fertility challenges. Early diagnosis allows:

• Fertility counselling

• Bone density monitoring

• Cardiovascular risk assessment

• Hormone replacement therapy where appropriate

Early intervention protects long term health.

Post Menopausal Health Risks

The post menopausal phase brings specific health considerations:

• Osteoporosis risk increases due to lower oestrogen

• Cardiovascular risk rises

• Metabolic changes affect weight and insulin sensitivity

Preventive care includes:

• Resistance training 2 to 3 times weekly

• Adequate protein intake

• Vitamin D optimisation

• Lipid and blood pressure monitoring

Practical Strategies for Symptom Management

1. Nutrition

Prioritise:

• Protein at each meal

• Fibre rich vegetables

• Omega 3 fatty acids

• Calcium rich foods

Limit processed sugar and alcohol.

2. Exercise

Strength training preserves muscle and bone. Cardiovascular exercise supports heart health and mood regulation.

3. Sleep Optimisation

• Maintain consistent bedtime

• Avoid screens 1 hour before sleep

• Keep bedroom cool and dark

4. Hormone Replacement Therapy

HRT remains the most effective treatment for moderate to severe symptoms. Suitability depends on individual risk profile.

5. Mental Health Support

Menopause and depression require active management. Seek psychological support when needed.

Book a menopause blood test here

Who Is This Blog For

This guide supports:

• Women aged 35 to 55 navigating hormonal change

• Women experiencing symptoms of perimenopause at 44

• Women aged 52 adjusting to post menopausal symptoms

• Women concerned about early menopause

• Partners seeking clarity about men and menopause

• Women experiencing ADHD menopause challenges

If symptoms affect quality of life, consult a qualified healthcare provider.

When to Seek Medical Advice

Contact your GP if you experience:

• Blood after menopause

• Severe depression

• Persistent insomnia

• Unexplained pelvic pain

• Sudden severe headaches

• Symptoms before age 40

Timely evaluation prevents complications.

Read more about menopause on clevelandclinic

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does menopause last

Perimenopause lasts 4 to 8 years on average. Hot flashes may continue 7 years or longer. Some women experience symptoms for more than 10 years.

Can you have hot flashes after menopause

Yes. Hot flashes after menopause are common and may persist for years.

Are symptoms of perimenopause at 44 normal

Yes. Irregular periods, mood changes, and sleep issues at 44 are typical signs of perimenopause.

What are common post menopausal symptoms

Post menopausal symptoms include vaginal dryness, joint discomfort, urinary changes, and occasional hot flashes.

Is blood after menopause serious

Yes. Any bleeding after menopause requires urgent medical assessment.

Can menopause cause depression

Yes. Menopause and depression are linked due to hormonal effects on brain chemistry.

What are signs of early menopause at 35

Irregular cycles, hot flashes, and fertility issues before age 40 warrant medical testing.

Do men experience menopause

Men experience gradual testosterone decline, sometimes described as male menopause symptoms, but it differs biologically from female menopause.

Menopause is a transition, not a decline. With accurate information, proactive healthcare, and personalised support, you can move through each stage with clarity and confidence.