The Meno-Pause Button

Time for a Midlife Check- In:

For many women, menopause marks the end of periods—but it’s also the start of a powerful new chapter. Rather than seeing menopause as a full stop, consider it a pause button—an invitation to slow down, check in with your body, and realign your health for the years ahead. This natural transition brings hormonal shifts, yes—but it’s also the perfect time to prioritise yourself, perhaps for the first time in decades.

This article explains what menopause is, what changes to expect, and which key midlife health checks every woman should consider during this pivotal stage.

What Is Menopause?

Menopause is defined as the point in time when you’ve gone 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period. For most women, this happens between the ages of 45 and 55, with the average age in Australia being around 51.

The years leading up to menopause—known as perimenopause—are often when symptoms begin. But menopause itself is the milestone: your ovaries have stopped releasing eggs, and levels of the hormones oestrogen and progesterone have dropped significantly.

Common Symptoms of Menopause

Every woman’s experience of menopause is different. Some transition with barely a symptom; others find the changes challenging. Common symptoms include:

• Hot flushes and night sweats
• Mood swings or low mood
• Sleep disturbances
• Brain fog or memory lapses
• Genital dryness or discomfort
• Changes in libido
• Joint stiffness or aches
• Weight gain (especially around the abdomen)
• Skin and Hair changes

While menopause is a natural part of ageing, these symptoms can significantly affect wellbeing and quality of life. The good news is: support is available, and this is an ideal time to check in on your overall health.

Why Midlife Health Checks Matter

As hormone levels shift, your risk of certain health conditions changes too. Menopause is the perfect time to pause and prioritise your long-term health—especially if you’ve been putting off check-ups while juggling work, family, or caregiving roles.

Here’s a guide to the key midlife health checks every woman should consider:

Heart Health

Oestrogen has a protective effect on the heart. As it declines, the risk of cardiovascular disease increases.

• Check: Blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose levels
• Ask your GP about: Family history, risk factors, and lifestyle changes

Bone Density

Oestrogen also helps maintain strong bones. After menopause, you’re at higher risk of osteopenia and osteoporosis.

• Check: Consider a bone density scan (DEXA) around age 50 or earlier if at risk
• Support: Weight-bearing exercise, calcium, vitamin D, and adequate protein

Breast Health

Menopause doesn’t stop the need for regular screening. In fact, breast cancer risk increases with age.

• Check: At the very least, a mammogram every 2 years until 74
• Breast awareness: Know what’s normal for your body and report any changes

Cervical Screening

Whether or not you are sexually active, you still need regular cervical screening.

• Check: Cervical screening test every 5 years (ages 25–74)
• Update: Make sure your GP has your screening history on file

Mental Health & Mood

Menopause can affect your mood and mental wellbeing. But persistent low mood, anxiety, or brain fog shouldn’t be dismissed as “just hormones.”

• Check in with yourself: Are you coping well day to day?
• Talk to your GP: Mental health is just as important as physical health
• Discuss Dementia risk reduction

Thyroid Function

Some menopause symptoms—like fatigue, mood swings, and weight changes—can overlap with thyroid issues.

• Check: Thyroid function test if symptoms are unexplained or persistent
• Ask your GP: Especially if you have a personal or family history

Talking to Your GP

Your GP is your partner in navigating menopause and midlife health. A well-rounded conversation might include:

• Symptom tracking and diagnosis
• Options for treatments
• Lifestyle changes that can support your transition
• A full health check-up including screening schedules

Note: Menopause Hormone Therapy or HRT is safe and effective for many women, especially when started before age 60 or within 10 years of menopause. Your GP can help you weigh the benefits and any risks based on your individual health.

Reframing Menopause: A Health Reset

Across cultures, menopause is seen not as an end but as a transition to deeper wisdom and personal power. It’s a time when many women step into new freedom—from cycles, caregiving pressures, or expectations—and focus on themselves.

Think of menopause not just as a “pause,” but as a reset: a natural checkpoint in life where you get to reassess, realign, and reimagine how you want to live moving forward.

In Summary

Menopause isn’t just about symptoms—it’s about stepping into the second half of life with awareness and agency. Make time for the health checks that matter, speak openly with your GP, and seek support when you need it. You deserve to feel strong, informed, and well—now and into the future.