“In my experience as a GP, it’s the mental health symptoms that often bother women the most,” says Dr Wild. “Anxiety, mood swings, brain fog, low energy and motivation, irritability, aggression, panic attacks… the list goes on.” For three years, Bupa has been collecting data on menopause and it’s consistently shown that the most severe symptoms reported are physical and mental exhaustion, sleep issues and depression.

“Many women have told us that they weren’t aware that these symptoms were connected to the menopause, which is very disturbing. They assumed that the menopause was mostly hot flushes and if they didn’t have those, then they weren’t going through the menopause.

“We explain that women feel this way because of the hormonal changes that are happening in the brain as they go through menopause, and that they may also find that other symptoms of the menopause are affecting their mental health too.”

Dr Wild says that anyone struggling with their mental health is best off seeking support from their GP, but that certain lifestyle measures can make a massive difference, including:

- Eating regular, balanced meals that avoid ultra-processed foods and overly sugary snacks to keep blood sugar stable

- Exercising regularly to lift mood and de-stress (like yoga or pilates)

- Creating a regular sleep schedule

- Minimising alcohol intake

- Scheduling in regular ‘me’ time

- Exploring the possibility of cognitive behavioural therapy

Finally, Dr Wild is keen to stress that menopause isn’t something to be feared. If you’re in your 30s or 40s, then it’s time to get educated. “Being well informed will give you the confidence to understand all the different symptoms that you may experience are normal and that there is help and support available.

“Take proactive steps to manage your health and follow a healthy lifestyle becomes even more important at this stage of life as it can help manage symptoms and reduce long-term health risks that can arise, such as osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease. Being prepared can be empowering and make a huge difference to the overall experience.”

The other crucial thing is getting proper support. In 2021, Bupa introduced its Bupa Menopause Plan, which has been designed to support women from peri- to post-menopause.

A first-of-its-kind programme, the plan offers patients the chance to see a GP who has had additional training in menopause, understands symptoms and concerns and has the time to really talk through the options for treatment. Appointments are available either face-to-face or remotely, with the latter available seven days a week, from 8am-10pm, meaning dedicated support has never been more easily accessible.

Busting the myths around the menopause and perimenopause – we spoke to a medical expert to get her advice on negotiating the change