Menopause is the transition a woman undergoes when her hormone levels decrease, she stops having a menstrual cycle permanently, and she can no longer get pregnant. Part of the natural aging process, its symptoms typically begin between ages 45 and 55, and most women reach menopause by 52. Wide-ranging symptoms can include hallmarks like hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and moodiness. Other symptoms can be easy to overlook or misinterpret, such as joint pain, trouble sleeping, brain fog, and fatigue, making this a perplexing, uncomfortable life phase for many. Ultimately, menopause is an individual process that affects each woman differently, but there are resources and treatments available to help.
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FAQ
What are the three stages of menopause?
Perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause are the three menopausal stages. Perimenopause is the transitional phase when hormone levels decrease and symptoms often appear. Menopause occurs after 12 consecutive months of no menstrual cycle, followed by postmenopause for the remainder of life.
At what age does menopause start?
Perimenopause usually begins between ages 45 and 55. On average, this phase takes four years, though it can last from 2 to 10 years. Menopause — or the 12th month of not having a period — occurs at an average age of 52.
How do you confirm menopause?
If you’re tracking your menstrual cycle, you’ll know you’ve experienced menopause if you haven’t had a menstrual period for 12 consecutive months. Your physician can also perform a blood test that measures hormone levels indicating menopause.
What are the symptoms of menopause?
Menopause can cause a wide range of symptoms, though the exact problems and their severity can differ between women. Common symptoms include hot flashes, vaginal dryness, incontinence, decreased sexual interest, irregular periods, difficulty sleeping, brain fog, depression, and anxiety.
How do you treat menopause symptoms?
Medications are available to treat menopause symptoms, including hormone therapy, antidepressants, and blood pressure medications. Treatments also include over-the-counter products, such as vaginal lubricants. Lifestyle changes — increasing exercise or practicing stress reduction, for instance — can help ease many of the symptoms.
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