How Long Do Symptoms of Menopause Last?

Duration of menopause symptoms

Perimenopause lasts a median of 4 years. But it could persist anywhere from 2 to 8 years. This is the stage that’s associated with experiencing the most common menopause symptoms, such as hot flashes.

Sometimes symptoms may stop entirely once you reach menopause.

However, a 2022 research review suggests that vasomotor symptoms (VMS) usually last for 7 years (and potentially beyond 10 years) after entering postmenopause.

Other research estimates that VMS can last 1 to 6 years and persist for 15 years or more in as many as 1 in 7 women.

According to the Office on Women’s Health, vaginal dryness may be a more common symptom that continues into postmenopause.

Any symptoms related to brain performance may begin to ease in postmenopause, but know that you may still see age-related cognitive decline.

Factors that affect symptoms of menopause

While symptoms can vary widely from person to person, certain behaviors and habits may worsen them. This may include:

• consuming alcohol
• smoking (speak with your doctor about your smoking cessation options if you want to quit)
• having obesity
• physical inactivity
• emotional stress

Management of symptoms of menopause

Going through perimenopause and menopause can cause new experiences and symptoms. But there are things you can do to find relief:

• Hot flashes:
  • Identify and avoid hot flash triggers.
  • Use a fan and bring a portable one with you on the go.
  • Practice deep breathing exercises.
  • Dress in layers.
  • Keep ice water with you.
• Vaginal dryness:
  • Use a water-based, over-the-counter (OTC) lubricant.
  • Apply an OTC vaginal moisturizer every few days.
• Insomnia:
  • Avoid large meals, smoking, coffee, and caffeine after noon.
  • Avoid taking naps during the day, or limit naps to 20 minutes.
  • Avoid strenuous exercise and alcohol close to bedtime.
  • Maintain your sleep hygiene.
  • Keep your room cool, dark, and quiet.
  • Learn how to best manage your stress.

A healthcare professional may also prescribe medication to help alleviate these symptoms.

Menopausal hormone therapy (MHT)

A healthcare professional may prescribe MHT (also known as hormone therapy) to help treat your symptoms.

MHT may help:

• slow bone loss
• reduce mood changes and mild depressive symptoms
• relieve physical symptoms of menopause

Side effects of MHT may include:

• vaginal bleeding
• bloating
• breast swelling or tenderness
• headaches
• mood changes
• nausea

When to seek medical attention

Consult a healthcare professional to rule out other causes of irregular periods if you:

• suddenly experience very heavy periods or periods with blood clots
• have periods lasting longer than usual
• spot or bleed after sexual activity
• spot or bleed after your period
• have periods close together

Report menopausal symptoms that impact your ability to perform daily activities to a healthcare professional or Menopause Society Certified Practitioner.

Speak with a health professional if you continue to have unbearable symptoms that last more than 5 years after your last menstrual period.

The takeaway

When and how long symptoms of menopause last vary for each individual. It’s common for VMS symptoms to last about 7 years after reaching menopause.

Life after menopause (postmenopause) isn’t much different than life during your reproductive years.

Do what you can to eat well, remain active, and stay on top of routine healthcare, as certain lifestyle habits and behaviors may worsen symptoms.