Menopause symptoms

Plain-language guides to common symptoms, with the signs that mean it's time to see a clinician. Dot does not diagnose.

• Vaginal dryness in menopause: genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM)

  Why vaginal dryness, irritation and painful sex happen around menopause, how GSM differs from hot flashes, and the treatment options clinicians use.

• Irregular periods in perimenopause: what's expected and what isn't

  How periods change in perimenopause, which changes are expected, and which bleeding patterns should be checked by a clinician.

• Heavy periods in perimenopause: causes and when to get help

  Heavy menstrual bleeding is common in perimenopause. Learn the signs, possible causes, iron-deficiency risk and when bleeding needs prompt care.