Ask the Experts- September 2026

Dear Red Hot Mamas,

I am 54 years old and haven’t had my period for over a year. All my friends are in menopause, and they are having symptoms that they talk about all the time. I haven’t had any symptoms. Will I get them later? Thanks for your help with this.

Vicky

Dear Vicky,

Yes—if you have gone 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period, you are considered to have reached menopause. The time after that is called post menopause.

The good news is that menopause is not a one-size-fits-all experience. Some women have hot flashes, night sweats, sleep problems, mood changes, or other symptoms for years, while others have few—or no—noticeable symptoms at all. It is entirely possible that you may not develop the symptoms your friends are experiencing.

However, symptoms can occur at different times for different women. Some women may notice hot flashes or sleep disruption after their final period, while others may develop vaginal dryness, discomfort with sex, urinary symptoms, or other changes later in post menopause.

Our advice is not to wait for symptoms or compare your experience with anyone else’s. Continue with regular preventive care and let your healthcare professional know if you notice any new or bothersome changes. One important reminder: any vaginal bleeding or spotting after you have gone 12 months without a period should always be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

Enjoy feeling well—and know that having an easier menopause experience is both possible and perfectly normal.

-From the Red Hot Mamas Team