The UK's most complete GLP-1 guide
Every Question Answered. Every Side Effect Explained.
- How GLP-1 medications work
- Mounjaro vs Wegovy compared
- Injection instructions
- Side effects & solutions
- What to eat on treatment
- FAQs answered
Free tracker included with every download this week
Will Menopause Cause Weight Loss?
Menopause typically does not cause weight loss — in fact, most women experience weight gain during this life stage. Hormonal changes, particularly the decline in oestrogen, slow metabolism and can lead to increased fat storage. However, individual experiences vary. If you're experiencing unexpected weight loss during menopause, it's important to discuss this with your GP, as it can sometimes indicate an underlying health issue that needs attention. Understanding the metabolic changes during menopause can help you take proactive steps towards healthy weight management.
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Calculate Your BMI Instantly
Enter your height and weight below. Supports both imperial (stone & lbs) and metric (kg). Results include NHS category, healthy weight range, and ethnicity adjustments.
What Is BMI and Why Does It Matter?
Body Mass Index (BMI) is the most widely used screening tool for assessing whether your weight falls within a healthy range. Used by the NHS, GPs, and weight management services across the UK, BMI provides a quick snapshot of your weight relative to your height. The formula is simple: your weight in kilograms divided by your height in metres squared (kg/m²).
While BMI isn't a perfect measure — it doesn't account for muscle mass, bone density, or fat distribution — it remains the standard first step in identifying potential weight-related health risks including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, and certain cancers.
The NHS also recommends adjusted thresholds for people of South Asian, Chinese, or Black African heritage — a BMI of 23 or above is classified as overweight, and 27.5 as obese. Our calculator includes this adjustment as a one-click toggle.
Why Does Menopause Usually Lead to Weight Gain?
During menopause, oestrogen levels drop significantly, which affects how your body stores fat and regulates appetite. Oestrogen helps regulate metabolism and body weight distribution. As levels decline, your metabolic rate slows — meaning you burn fewer calories at rest — even without changes to diet or activity levels.
- Metabolism slows: Typically by 2–8% per decade after age 30, with menopause accelerating this decline
- Fat redistribution: Your body tends to store fat around the abdomen rather than hips and thighs, which is common during menopause
- Appetite changes: Some women report increased hunger or cravings, partly due to hormonal fluctuations
- Muscle loss: Loss of muscle mass (sarcopenia) during midlife reduces calorie burn further
These changes combine to make weight gain more likely during menopause, even with stable eating and exercise habits.
Clinically BackedWeight Loss
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How It Works
Three simple steps to understand your weight and take action.
Enter your height and weight in our free calculator. Get your BMI, NHS category, healthy weight range, and ethnicity-adjusted thresholds instantly.
If your BMI suggests you're overweight or obese, explore our GLP-1 calculators to project potential weight loss on Mounjaro or Wegovy.
Use our progress tracker to log your weight weekly, visualise your journey with charts, and stay motivated — all stored privately in your browser.
Free Weight Loss Tools & Guides
Everything you need to understand your weight, explore medication options, and track your progress — completely free.
When Weight Loss During Menopause May Be Concerning
Unintentional weight loss during menopause is not typical and should be evaluated by your GP. Possible causes include overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism), which is more common in women over 50, certain medications, increased stress or anxiety, or underlying health conditions. Other concerning signs include persistent fatigue, night sweats beyond typical menopausal symptoms, changes in appetite, or digestive issues. If you're experiencing weight loss you haven't deliberately caused through diet or exercise, contact your GP for a proper assessment. They may order blood tests to check thyroid function and rule out other health issues affecting weight management.
- Dual GIP/GLP-1 receptor agonist
- Up to 22.5% body weight loss (SURMOUNT-1)
- Weekly injection, dose escalation over 20+ weeks
- Available via private prescription in the UK
- Doses: 2.5mg → 5mg → 7.5mg → 10mg → 12.5mg → 15mg
- GLP-1 receptor agonist
- Up to 15–17% body weight loss (STEP trials)
- Weekly injection, 5-step dose escalation
- NHS & private prescription available
- Doses: 0.25mg → 0.5mg → 1mg → 1.7mg → 2.4mg
Mounjaro vs Wegovy: Head-to-Head
A side-by-side comparison of the two most popular GLP-1 weight loss medications available in the UK.
| Feature | Mounjaro | Wegovy |
|---|---|---|
| Drug class | Dual GIP/GLP-1 agonist | GLP-1 agonist |
| Active ingredient | Tirzepatide | Semaglutide |
| Avg. weight loss | 15–22.5% | 12–17% |
| Key trial | SURMOUNT-1 (2022) | STEP 1 (2021) |
| Max dose | 15 mg weekly | 2.4 mg weekly |
| Escalation period | 20–32 weeks | 16–20 weeks |
| Administration | Weekly injection (pen) | Weekly injection (pen) |
| NHS availability | Private prescription only | NHS & private |
| Approx. private cost | £150–£250/month | £150–£300/month |
| Common side effects | Nausea, diarrhoea, constipation | Nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea |
Data sourced from SURMOUNT-1 and STEP 1 clinical trials. Costs are approximate and vary by provider. Always consult a prescriber.
Am I Eligible for Weight Loss Medication?
In the UK, eligibility for GLP-1 weight loss medications like Mounjaro and Wegovy is based on your BMI and overall health profile.
- BMI of 30 or above (obese)
- Age 18 or over
- No contraindicated conditions
- Committed to lifestyle changes
- BMI of 27 or above
- Plus type 2 diabetes
- Or high blood pressure
- Or obstructive sleep apnoea
Use our BMI calculator to check whether your BMI falls within the eligible range.
How We Built These Tools
Every calculator and guide on myweightcheck is built with accuracy and transparency in mind. Our BMI calculator uses the standard WHO formula with NHS-aligned category thresholds. Our GLP-1 projections are modelled on published clinical trial data from SURMOUNT and STEP studies.
All data stays on your device. We don't require sign-ups, and we don't store your health information on any server. Your progress tracker saves data locally in your browser using localStorage, so only you can see it.
We're based in the UK and our tools are designed specifically for UK users — supporting stone & lbs by default, referencing NHS guidelines, using NICE-approved medication data, and linking to GPhC-registered pharmacies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about BMI, weight loss medications, and our free UK tools.
Can menopause actually cause weight loss in some women?
Unintentional weight loss during menopause is uncommon and usually warrants investigation by your GP. Most women experience weight gain. If you're losing weight unintentionally, thyroid problems, medication side effects, or other health conditions may be responsible. Always seek professional advice rather than assuming it's a normal menopause symptom.
What's the average weight gain during menopause?
Research suggests women gain an average of 5–8 kg (11–18 lbs) during the menopause transition, typically over several years. However, individual experiences vary significantly. Some women gain more, others less. Weight gain during this period is largely driven by slowed metabolism, hormonal changes, and reduced muscle mass rather than dietary changes alone.
How can I manage my weight during menopause?
Focus on regular physical activity (including strength training to preserve muscle), maintain a balanced diet with adequate protein, manage stress, and ensure good sleep quality. Track your weight using our free progress tracker to identify patterns. If weight management becomes difficult despite lifestyle changes, speak to your GP about evidence-based options including prescription weight loss medication, which may support weight management alongside healthy habits.
Is menopause-related weight gain permanent?
Weight gained during menopause is not necessarily permanent, but it can be harder to shift due to the metabolic slowdown. Sustainable weight loss requires a modest calorie deficit of around 500 kcal per day, typically resulting in 0.5–1 kg loss per week. Combining diet, physical activity, and stress management gives the best outcomes. Your GP can advise on personalised approaches.
Should I consider weight loss medication during menopause?
If you're struggling with menopause-related weight gain despite diet and exercise, weight loss medication may be an option. Prescription weight loss treatments are available through NHS specialist services or private prescribing. These work alongside lifestyle changes, not instead of them. Your GP or a licensed prescriber can assess whether you're eligible based on your BMI and health profile. Calculate your BMI using our free BMI calculator to understand your starting point.
Ready to take control of your weight loss journey?
Start with a free BMI check, explore your GLP-1 options, or begin tracking your progress today. No sign-up. No cost. Just results.