If you’re living in Spain and struggling with symptoms you can’t quite explain exhaustion, anxiety, hot flashes, night sweats, poor sleep, brain fog, joint aches, low mood, weight changes, itchy skin, hair loss, or loss of libido you are not alone.
Many women tell us they feel dismissed, confused, or unsure where to turn for menopause and perimenopause support. Some are told their symptoms are “just stress” or “just age.” Others are left feeling they should simply put up with how they feel.
We want to reassure you: what you’re experiencing is real, and support is available.
Menopause care varies widely between countries and healthcare systems. In Spain, many women struggle to find clear, consistent menopause guidance, particularly in English.
Within the Spanish healthcare system, there is some recognition of the value of HRT once menopause has been reached (defined as 12 months after your last period). However, women are often refused HRT during perimenopause and may instead be offered the contraceptive pill. The impact of symptoms in perimenopause is frequently dismissed.
This can leave women feeling unheard and uncertain, even when symptoms are significantly affecting daily life.
Every woman’s experience is different. However, many women report:
You do not need to experience all of these symptoms for menopause or perimenopause to be a possibility. Some women experience many symptoms, while others may only notice one or two.
Hormonal changes during perimenopause and menopause can affect many systems in the body, including sleep, mood, temperature regulation, metabolism, and musculoskeletal health.
Because these symptoms overlap with other conditions, they are sometimes attributed to stress, workload, lifestyle, or ageing without exploring hormonal changes as a potential contributor.
A careful, thoughtful assessment matters.
Start by noticing your symptoms and any patterns over time. Keeping a simple note on your phone can be helpful.
Seek a GP who will take time to listen and who can offer clear, evidence-based guidance. Most importantly, do not dismiss how you feel.
You deserve to understand what is happening in your body and what options are available.
Dr Melanie Lake is a UK-trained General Practitioner who provides dedicated perimenopause and menopause consultations for women living in Spain.
Her approach is calm, unhurried, and focused on listening. Appointments are designed to give you space to talk, understand your symptoms, and explore appropriate, evidence-based options in a way that feels supportive and clear.
Consultations are available online or in person, allowing flexibility depending on your circumstances.
Menopause is a natural stage of life, but struggling is not something you have to accept. With the right guidance and support, many women find they can feel more like themselves again.
If you’re unsure where to turn, we’re here to help.
For many women, perimenopause begins in the early to mid-40s, but it can start earlier or later. There is no single “correct” age.
If you are noticing changes in your cycle, mood, sleep, or physical health, it is reasonable to explore whether perimenopause may be a factor — regardless of your age.
Not always. In women over 45 with typical symptoms, diagnosis is often based on history rather than blood tests, as hormone levels can fluctuate.
Tests may be helpful in certain situations, such as younger women, sudden period changes, or when ruling out other conditions.
Yes. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) can be discussed alongside other options.
A consultation allows time to review potential benefits, risks, and whether it is appropriate for you, so you can make an informed decision based on clear, balanced information.
Menopause is a natural stage of life, but that does not mean you should simply endure symptoms that affect your quality of life.
If you are struggling, support and guidance can make a meaningful difference.
Yes. Hormonal changes can affect mood, emotional wellbeing, and sleep patterns.
These symptoms are common during perimenopause and menopause and should be explored thoughtfully rather than dismissed as “just stress.”
Yes. Online consultations are suitable for many menopause and perimenopause discussions and offer flexibility if in-person appointments are not convenient.
This varies from person to person. Some women benefit from follow-up appointments, while others only need occasional guidance as their symptoms change over time.
If you would like to book a consultation or learn more about menopause and perimenopause support in Spain, please get in touch.