Menopause is a natural biological process that all women experience as they age. Specifically, menopause refers to the point in time when a woman stops having her monthly menstrual periods. This signals that her ovaries have stopped releasing eggs that can be fertilized.
The transition into menopause is called perimenopause. This typically begins for women in their late 40s, but can start earlier or later. Perimenopause lasts for several years leading up to menopause. During this transition time, women may experience various symptoms as their hormone levels fluctuate, such as:
Once a woman has gone 12 months without a period, she has reached menopause. The average age for menopause is 51, but it can happen from the 40s to mid-50s.
After menopause, women can no longer get pregnant naturally. This marks the end of their reproductive years. While some women may feel relief to be done with periods, menopause can bring uncomfortable symptoms. Hormone therapy and lifestyle changes may help alleviate issues like hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and osteoporosis risk.
The lead-up to menopause lasts for years, so women should educate themselves on what to expect. Tracking symptoms and talking to a doctor at Equilibrium Hormone Center can help manage any changes. While menopause signifies the end of fertility, it opens the door to new beginnings. Take care of your health and embrace this next chapter!