Instant Genius What we all need to know about menopause
Oct 31, 2025
In this enlightening discussion, Dr. Saleha Hassan, an emergency medicine doctor and researcher at the University of Cambridge, sheds light on the often-taboo subject of menopause. She shares her personal experiences and highlights common symptoms like fatigue, mood changes, and brain fog. Dr. Hassan explains the importance of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) and lifestyle changes for easing discomfort. She emphasizes open conversation and peer support, encouraging listeners to embrace menopause as a natural life stage and seek guidance when needed.
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Clear Diagnostic Definition Of Menopause
- Menopause is diagnosed after 12 consecutive months without a period and no other medical cause.
- It reflects the end of reproductive activity with falling estrogen and progesterone.
Misdiagnosed Symptoms Led To Lupus Discovery
- Dr Saleha Hassan describes severe fatigue, anxiety, and brain fog she first mistook for menopause.
- Blood tests revealed lupus, showing symptoms can hide other conditions.
Symptoms Are A Broad 'Shopping Basket'
- Menopause symptoms extend far beyond hot flushes to include joint pain, headaches and cognitive fog.
- These non-obvious symptoms can make women feel unrecognisable to themselves.