Q. I am 53 and it has been 15 months since my last period. I am experiencing a range of symptoms, including hot flushes, but cope okay. What I do have problems with are my joints, fingers, shoulders, elbows and hips. They are extremely painful especially in the morning and once home from work.  After sitting down for a while I find pain on movement. Would there be a connection to menopause as I have only had these symptoms about 9 months?

Joint aches and pains do occur in about 50 per cent of women, but because your symptoms are so severe as to interfere with your normal living, you should see your doctor to check for arthritis.

Content updated 26 August 2011