Menopause and perimenopause are natural transitions, but the symptoms can often be challenging and disruptive. At MedSurg Weight Loss, we understand that every woman’s experience is unique. Our doctors provide compassionate, evidence-based care to support you through these changes and help you feel like yourself again.
Our team can help with a wide range of symptoms and health concerns, including:
We offer a holistic, individualised approach to treatment, which may include:
We provide menopause and perimenopause consultations for women across Brisbane, including Hawthorne, Bulimba, and surrounding suburbs.
Many women notice weight gain or changes in body shape during perimenopause and menopause, even when their lifestyle hasn’t changed. This is not simply about “willpower” — hormonal shifts play a major role.
As oestrogen levels decline, the body tends to store more fat around the abdomen and visceral organs. At the same time, metabolism slows and lean muscle mass gradually decreases, making it easier to gain weight and harder to lose it. These changes can also increase the risk of conditions such as insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.
These changes can feel frustrating, especially if you are maintaining the same diet and activity levels as before. It’s important to know that weight gain during menopause is not your fault — it’s a natural result of hormonal and metabolic shifts. With the right medical care, nutrition, exercise, and support, it is possible to manage these changes and protect your long-term health.
Weight gain during menopause is not just a cosmetic concern. It is closely tied to metabolic health, bone strength, and long-term wellbeing. That’s why at MedSurg Weight Loss, we focus on more than just symptoms. Our doctors and allied health team work together to provide strategies that support healthy weight and overall health, including:
Perimenopause is the transition period leading up to menopause. It usually begins in the mid-40s, though it can start earlier, and is marked by changes in menstrual cycles and the onset of symptoms such as hot flushes, mood changes, or sleep disturbances.
Menopause is reached when you have not had a menstrual period for 12 consecutive months. The average age of menopause in Australia is 51 years.
Symptoms can vary from person to person, but the most common include:
Not everyone experiences all symptoms, but many women find that symptoms can impact quality of life.
Menopausal hormone therapy (MHT, sometimes called HRT) can be a safe and effective treatment for many women, particularly if started around the time of perimenopause. It can help reduce hot flushes, improve sleep and mood, and protect bone health. Like any medication, it may not be suitable for everyone, and risks and benefits need to be carefully discussed with your doctor. We also offer non-hormonal options for those who prefer or need alternatives.
Yes. Hormonal changes during menopause can contribute to changes in body composition, including increased central weight gain and reduced muscle mass. Metabolism also naturally slows with age. At MedSurg Weight Loss, we take a comprehensive approach to managing weight at this stage of life, combining medical, dietary, psychological, and exercise support tailored to your individual needs.
Lifestyle changes are often an important part of managing symptoms. Regular exercise, a balanced diet, reducing alcohol, stopping smoking, and improving sleep routines can all improve how you feel during menopause and beyond. These changes also reduce long-term risks of heart disease, osteoporosis, and type 2 diabetes.
You should see a doctor if:
Our doctors will provide personalised advice and treatment to help you feel supported and confident through this stage of life.
