10 of 11 in Signs & Symptoms
Weight at menopause
Why weight often creeps up around menopause, especially around the tummy, and why it matters for your health.
On this page
Weight gain around the tummy
Fluctuating oestrogen levels in the perimenopause may increase body weight, especially around the abdomen (tummy). This in turn increases the risk of metabolic problems.
After menopause, there can be an average weight gain of 2 to 2.5 kg over 3 years. Weight also tends to rise with age in midlife, and menopause shifts where fat is stored, towards the tummy.
Fat around the organs
Visceral fat is fat stored deep inside the tummy, around the organs. It can start to increase as early as 3 to 4 years before menopause. Together with changes in body composition and a loss of muscle mass, this further affects metabolic health. Read about muscle loss.
Why it matters: metabolic syndrome
Weight gain and obesity are the main contributors to metabolic syndrome, a group of conditions that includes:
- Obesity
- Insulin resistance
- Glucose intolerance (blood sugar higher than normal)
- Unhealthy cholesterol and blood fat levels
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
These conditions raise the risk of diabetes and heart disease. Read about lifestyle changes.
Keep learning
Cardiovascular disease
Why heart disease risk rises at menopause.
Read moreLifestyle changes
Everyday steps that can ease symptoms and protect your health.
Read moreJoint and muscle pains
Aches, stiffness and losing muscle strength.
Read moreWorried about your symptoms?
Your doctor can help you work out what is going on and talk you through your options.