Hiv and menopause

Page last reviewed 4.11.2026

Menopause is a natural and significant stage of life for everyone with ovaries, and its effects can vary greatly from person to person. Menopause is the period during which the ovaries produce less oestrogen, menstrual periods become less frequent and eventually stop altogether. Menopause is often associated with various symptoms, such as hot flushes, vaginal dryness, mood swings, increased sweating and sleep difficulties. Menopausal symptoms can vary widely and may be difficult to manage. Sometimes these symptoms significantly affect everyday life. Treatment is available to help relieve menopausal symptoms.

You do not have to put up with troublesome symptoms. Hormone therapy can effectively relieve menopausal symptoms.

For people living with HIV, it is particularly important to take menopause into account, as it can affect both physical health and overall wellbeing in many ways. Studies show that women living with HIV aged 45–60 report a high number of menopausal symptoms. HIV infection is also associated with an increased risk of osteoporosis, particularly after menopause.

Menopausal symptoms can be effectively treated with hormone therapy when needed. Current HIV medications very rarely interact with hormone preparations. The suitability of hormone therapy is assessed individually, and treatment can be started during an appointment with either a gynaecologist or a general practitioner. Local oestrogen treatment can be used to relieve vaginal dryness.

People living with HIV can seek help for menopausal symptoms by making an appointment with a general practitioner at their local health centre.

After menopause, the risk of cardiovascular disease increases, making it important to address other risk factors. Treating high blood pressure, taking cholesterol-lowering medication when needed, following a low-fat diet and avoiding smoking can help prevent cardiovascular disease.

Mental health also deserves attention, as menopause can increase symptoms of depression and anxiety, which may in turn affect adherence to HIV treatment. The World Health Organization (WHO) also highlights the importance of raising awareness about menopause as part of promoting overall health and wellbeing.

During menopause, it is important to regularly monitor the wellbeing of people living with HIV and assess potential health risks as a whole. Care should be based on ongoing follow-up and individual assessment. Access to adequate and reliable information about menopause and its treatment is also essential, as a lack of information can increase uncertainty and emotional strain. Peer support can provide valuable support during this stage of life.

HIV-related stigma and fear of negative treatment can make it more difficult to seek help for menopausal symptoms. If you are concerned about seeking care for these reasons, you can discuss your concerns with your HIV care provider. You can also contact Hivpoint or Positiiviset for support and counselling.

There is still relatively little research on the relationship between HIV and menopause. In spring 2026, a Nordic interview study was launched in Helsinki and Turku, Finland. The aim is to gain more knowledge to improve care and promote the wellbeing of people living with HIV who are going through menopause.
If you are living with HIV and approaching or experiencing menopause, and are interested in taking part in the study, please ask your HIV care provider for more information.