Menopause is a natural transition in a woman's life when her periods stop permanently, and she can no longer get pregnant naturally. The years leading up to menopause are called perimenopause. During perimenopause, hormone levels fluctuate and start to decline, causing changes in menstrual bleeding and other common symptoms like hot flashes, trouble sleeping, and mood changes.
When does menopause occur?
The average age for menopause is 51. But it can happen anywhere between the ages of 40 and 58. You've officially reached menopause when you have not had a period for 12 consecutive months.
What causes menopause?
Menopause occurs when a woman's ovaries stop producing the sex hormones estrogen and progesterone. This signals the end of a woman's reproductive years. The levels of estrogen and progesterone decline over a period of years. This fluctuation in hormones causes the symptoms associated with perimenopause and menopause.
What are the stages of menopause?
There are three stages:
- Perimenopause - The transitional stage before menopause when reproductive hormones begin to fluctuate. Usually lasts four to eight years.
- Menopause - Defined as 12 consecutive months without a period. Marks the end of menstrual cycles.
- Postmenopause - The years after menopause has occurred.
What are the common symptoms of menopause?
The most common menopause symptoms include:
- Hot flashes
- Night sweats
- Vaginal dryness or atrophy
- Changes in mood, like depression or anxiety
- Trouble sleeping
- Fatigue
- Memory lapses
- Weight gain
- Loss of breast fullness
The severity of symptoms varies from woman to woman. Lifestyle choices can also impact symptoms. Smoking, excess alcohol, highly processed foods, and not getting enough exercise tend to make symptoms worse.
While menopause signals the end of fertility, it can open the door to new beginnings. Many women find a new sense of freedom and empowerment during the postmenopausal years. There are many safe and effective menopause treatments available today for relieving symptoms, so women can feel their best at every stage of life.