Health & Wellbeing2 min check

Menopause Symptom Checker

A simple tally of common menopause symptoms to bring to your GP. Not a diagnosis.

Short answer

Perimenopause typically starts in the early-to-mid 40s and can last 4–10 years before periods stop. Common symptoms include hot flushes, night sweats, mood changes, sleep problems, brain fog, joint aches and changes in periods.

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Calculation method, coverage and version

Inputs used: Age, Periods, Hot flushes / night sweats, Sleep problems, Low mood / anxiety / irritability, Brain fog / memory issues, Joint or muscle aches, Vaginal dryness or urinary changes, Reduced libido.
Calculation approach: The calculator applies the rules and assumptions described in “How it works” to the values you enter. Rounding can cause small differences from an official or provider calculation.
Coverage: Health & Wellbeing. UK nations, tax treatment, local rules and provider criteria can differ; check the official sources shown below before acting.
Content version: No page-specific review date is currently published. Treat the result as indicative and verify current rules independently.

Not included unless explicitly requested: personal circumstances not entered, provider discretion, future rule changes, professional fees and case-specific exceptions. Read the full calculator methodology.

How it works

We score 7 common symptom domains 0–3 each (max 21) and combine with your period pattern and age to suggest a likely menopausal stage. NICE guidance recommends clinical diagnosis from symptoms alone in women aged 45+.

Worked example

Age 49, irregular periods, moderate flushes (2), severe sleep (3), moderate mood (2), mild fog (1), mild joint (1), no vaginal (0), no libido (0) → score 9/21, "Likely perimenopause — Moderate burden".

Who should use this

•Women noticing symptoms in their 40s
•Anyone wanting a structured way to discuss symptoms with a GP
•Partners wanting to understand symptom impact

Common mistakes

×Assuming all symptoms are 'just stress' or thyroid
×Stopping HRT after 5 years without review — current NICE guidance has no fixed time limit
×Not mentioning vaginal/urinary symptoms (very treatable with local oestrogen)

Frequently asked questions

What age does menopause start?▾

Average UK age is 51. Perimenopause symptoms commonly start in the early-to-mid 40s.

Do I need a blood test?▾

Usually not if you're 45+. Under 45, FSH may be tested. Under 40 (premature menopause) needs investigation.

Is HRT safe?▾

For most healthy women under 60 within 10 years of menopause, benefits outweigh risks. Discuss with your GP.

What helps without HRT?▾

CBT for flushes/sleep, regular exercise, weight management, reducing alcohol/caffeine, and SSRIs in some cases.

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