The symptoms of the menopause differ between women, and can be influenced by diet and nutrition, general fitness and physical health.  Symptoms vary from physical symptoms such as hot flushes, night sweats and insomnia, to psychological symptoms such as mood swings, irritability and memory loss.  Other symptoms can include dry skin, vaginal dryness, loss of libido and a lowering of self esteem.  It is estimated that three-quarters of women in the UK experience one or more symptoms associated with the menopause, and that for one third these symptoms are severe.

Oestrogen promotes bone density, and helps to protect the heart and blood vessels against disease. Over the longer term, as oestrogen levels decline, the risk of developing osteoporosis or heart disease also increases.