Compassionate care through every stage of menopause
Menopause is one of the biggest transitions in a woman’s life.
No two women are the same as far as menopause is concerned but generally, menopause occurs between the ages of 45-55 years.
Oestrogen production in the ovaries slows down and finally stops. As ovaries become older, they become less efficient which leads to significant hormonal changes.
For some women, periods stop without any symptoms, although for others, perimenopause and menopause can be a time filled with uncomfortable and painful symptoms lasting for years.
Changes in hormone levels can begin years before menopause starts. The good news is, your GP can help with ongoing medical advice and hormonal treatments, to help manage this phase of life as effectively and comfortably as possible.
The 3 stages of menopause
Perimenopause
Perimenopause is the transitional phase before menopause, often beginning in a woman’s 40s but sometimes starting earlier. During this time, hormonal changes can lead to symptoms like irregular periods, hot flashes, mood changes, and sleep disturbances.
Menopause
Menopause is marked by the end of menstrual periods (no periods for 12 consecutive months) and typically occurs around age 50. When menopause begins, the symptoms that have been experienced in the perimenopause stage, tend to increase in intensity.
Postmenopause
Postmenopause refers to the stage of life following menopause, lasting for the rest of a woman’s life. By this time, many menopause symptoms have eased, but the lower levels of oestrogen can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, and weight gain.
Menopause symptoms
While no two women are the same, some common symptoms of menopause may include the following:
It can be difficult to diagnose perimenopause, as changes in hormones occur throughout a woman's life at different times of her cycle and may result in similar symptoms.
It’s important that if you’re of perimenopausal age and you start to regularly suffer with any changes in your body, that you make an appointment with your GP.
There’s no way to avoid menopause, however the symptoms of menopause can often be managed very effectively with regular treatments prescribed by your GP. If you think you’re experiencing the symptoms of menopause or perimenopause, book an appointment with a GP with additional expertise in menopause.
Tailored treatments and guidance for menstrual disorders
Menstrual disorders cover a variety of conditions that can impact daily life and overall health. Common issues include irregular cycles, heavy bleeding (menorrhagia), painful periods (dysmenorrhea), premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Some women experience more complex conditions like premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). These conditions can arise from a range of possible causes, including hormonal imbalances, lifestyle factors, stress, or underlying health conditions.
GP's consulting from our rooms work closely with patients to determine treatment plans aimed at alleviating symptoms, restoring hormonal balance, and improving overall wellbeing. Whether you’re managing the symptoms of PCOS, experiencing severe premenstrual changes with PMDD, or dealing with other menstrual concerns, we’re here to support you with empathy, expertise, and a commitment to enhancing your quality of life.
Types of menstrual disorders
PMS / PMDD
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) are conditions that can affect women in the days or weeks leading up to their menstrual period. PMS involves physical and emotional symptoms like bloating, mood swings, fatigue, and irritability. PMDD is a more severe form of PMS and can cause intense emotional symptoms, including severe mood swings, anxiety, and depression, significantly impacting daily life.
PCOS
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal disorder affecting many women of reproductive age. Characterised by a range of symptoms, including irregular menstrual cycles, excess androgen (male hormone) levels, and the development of small cysts on the ovaries, these hormonal imbalances can lead to issues such as weight gain, acne, excessive hair growth, and, in some cases, difficulties with fertility.
Heavy Periods
Heavy periods, medically known as menorrhagia, are menstrual cycles with excessive bleeding that lasts longer than usual or requires frequent pad or tampon changes. Women with heavy periods may pass large blood clots and experience symptoms like severe cramps, fatigue, or even anemia due to blood loss. Causes of heavy periods can include hormonal imbalances, uterine fibroids, polyps, or certain health conditions.
Symptoms of menstrual disorders
Menstrual disorders like PMS, PMDD, PCOS, and heavy periods can significantly impact daily life and well-being. GP's consulting in our rooms can help with personalised medical treatments to address these conditions, working closely with each patient to find the right approach.
Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) & Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD): Treatment for PMS and PMDD may involve lifestyle guidance, nutritional support, and medications to help manage mood swings, bloating, fatigue, and other symptoms. In more severe cases, hormonal treatments or antidepressants may be recommended to reduce the emotional impact of PMDD.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): PCOS treatment at Robina Town Medical Centre focuses on balancing hormones and managing symptoms. This may include hormonal contraceptives to regulate cycles, medications to manage insulin levels, or specific treatments for acne and hair growth. Our team also provides support for lifestyle changes that can improve overall health, such as nutrition and exercise guidance.
Heavy Periods (Menorrhagia): For patients with heavy periods, treatment options range from medications to reduce bleeding, like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or hormonal therapies, to more targeted approaches such as the use of an intrauterine device (IUD) to help regulate flow. In some cases, minimally invasive procedures may be recommended.
Our approach at Robina Town Medical Centre is personalised and compassionate, ensuring that each patient receives the care, support, and information they need to manage their symptoms effectively and enhance their quality of life.
GP's with a special interest in Menopause and Menstrual Disorders
Dr Annelies Geissler
Practice Principal
Dr. Annelies Geissler is a highly qualified and compassionate GP with a genuine desire to make a difference in the lives of her patients. Dr Annelies's qualifications include additional training in menopause and menstrual disorders, visit Dr Annelies profile.
Dr Hannah Horvath
Practice Principal
Dr Hannah Horvath offers comprehensive, individualised care ensuring each patients' physical and emotional wellbeing is a priority. Dr Hannah has undertaken additional training in menopause and menstrual disorders. For more details visit Dr Hannah's profile.
Dr Colinette Margerison
GENERAL PRACTITIONER
Dr. Colinette Margerison provides dedicated care for women with a focus on menopause, menstrual conditions and women’s health. She has additional qualifications in menopause management and extensive experience in gynaecology and medical education. For more details, visit Dr. Colinette’s profile.
We are here to help
Navigating menstrual disorders and menopause/perimenopause can be challenging, but you don’t have to go through it alone. At Robina Town and Easy T Medical Centres, our menopause and menstrual disorder clinic offers compassionate, friendly care tailored to your unique needs.
GP's practising from our clinic can provide advice and guidance, helping you manage symptoms, improve your well-being, and protect long-term health.
We take a whole patient approach, offering treatment options, lifestyle guidance, and preventive care. Choose Robina Town Medical Centre to experience dedicated care.
You can book an appointment with your regular GP, however the Doctors listed above have a special interest in menstrual disorders and menopause (including perimenopause and post menopause).
Fees
Long Consultation
30 minutes
Fee: $130
Medicare Rebate: $82.90
Out-of-pocket: $47.10
FAQs
We’ve prepared a range of frequently asked questions about menopause and menstrual disorders. Click on each question to display the answer.
Menopause FAQ
Perimenopause is the transition phase before menopause, where hormone levels begin to fluctuate, causing symptoms like irregular periods and hot flashes. It can last anywhere from a few months to up to 10 years, typically beginning in a woman’s 40s.
Menopause symptoms vary but often include hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, sleep disturbances, and vaginal dryness. These are due to declining oestrogen levels and can affect daily life and comfort.
The average age for menopause is around 50, but it can occur anywhere between 45 and 55. Menopause is confirmed after 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period.
Postmenopause is the stage following menopause, lasting for the rest of a woman’s life. Many menopause symptoms may lessen in intensity, but due to low estrogen levels, women are at increased risk of conditions like osteoporosis and heart disease.
Menopause is typically diagnosed based on symptoms and a history of menstrual cycles. A healthcare provider may perform blood tests to check hormone levels if menopause is suspected at an earlier age or to rule out other causes for symptoms.
Treatment options vary, including hormone replacement therapy (HRT) / menopausal hormone treatment (MHT), non-hormonal medications, lifestyle adjustments, and alternative therapies. Consulting a healthcare provider can help determine the most effective treatment for individual symptoms based on health history.
Yes, lifestyle changes like maintaining a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress management, and adequate sleep can help reduce symptoms. Avoiding triggers like caffeine, spicy foods, and alcohol may lessen hot flashes and night sweats.
After menopause, the risk of osteoporosis, heart disease, and weight gain increases due to lower estrogen levels. Regular check-ups, preventive care, and lifestyle changes are important to manage these risks.
It’s a good idea to see a doctor if menopause symptoms interfere with your quality of life, if you have irregular bleeding, or if you want to explore treatment options. A healthcare provider can help you manage symptoms and provide support throughout this transition.
HRT/MHT is considered effective and safe for the majority of healthy women in the first 10 years after the onset of menopause. HRT/MHT can increase protection of bone density and cardiovascular health.
Some of the risks of HRT/MHT include:
- headache, nausea, breast tenderness
- increased risk of breast cancer, stroke or blood clots depending on other risk factors such as smoking or being overweight
HRT/MHT is not suitable for women who have or have had:
- breast cancer or other hormone dependent cancers
- blood clots
- liver disease
- heart disease or stroke
- untreated high blood pressure
More information is available on the Australian Menopause Society website and Jean Hailes website
Menstrual Disorder FAQ
Menstrual disorders can vary widely, but some common symptoms include irregular periods, very heavy or prolonged bleeding, severe cramps, mood swings, and intense bloating. Other symptoms might involve missed periods, excessive fatigue, or severe emotional changes before and during your period. These symptoms may be signs of conditions such as Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS), Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), or other hormonal imbalances. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s a good idea to consult a healthcare professional to discuss your options for diagnosis and treatment.
While PMS and PMDD share similar symptoms like mood swings, irritability, and bloating, PMDD is a more severe form of PMS. Women with PMDD often experience symptoms that interfere significantly with daily life, including extreme mood changes, depression, and anxiety. PMDD requires a specific diagnosis and may involve a combination of lifestyle adjustments, medications, and therapies to help manage symptoms. If you think you may have PMDD, it’s essential to talk to a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and to discuss treatment options.
Treatment for menstrual disorders depend on the underlying condition and severity of symptoms. Common treatments include hormonal therapies (such as birth control pills or hormone therapy), medications to manage pain, lifestyle adjustments, and sometimes surgical options for severe cases. Conditions like PCOS may also benefit from dietary changes and exercise. Consulting with a healthcare provider can help you explore tailored treatment options to manage symptoms and improve your quality of life.
Some conditions, such as PCOS and severe endometriosis, may affect fertility. Early diagnosis and treatment can often improve fertility outcomes.
Lifestyle changes, such as managing stress, regular exercise, a nutritious diet, and quality sleep, can improve symptoms of menstrual disorders, especially for PMS and PCOS. Consult with your GP for advice tailored to your healthcare needs.
Diagnosis may involve blood tests, ultrasounds, and physical exams based on symptoms and medical history.
Irregular cycles may be impacted by hormonal imbalances, stress, thyroid issues, and conditions like PCOS or endometriosis.