I am 44 and have just started getting night sweats. My periods are still regular and last up to 4 -5 days. I have recently started getting spots on my face again and a friend suggested it might be the menopause! Does this sound likely to you when I am still having regular periods?

The stage before your periods stop for good is called the peri-menopause and you can start to experience menopause symptoms even though your periods are still regular.

This phase can go on for a number of years before you notice your periods starting to change.

Hot flushes, mood swings and skin changes can all be an indication that you are in this stage.

However, low iron and low thyroid can also cause menopause-like symptoms, as can stress so it is a good idea to check with your doctor.

They can also test your hormone levels and that may indicate changes on the way.

Eileen Durward