Menopause

Menopause is the natural biological process that marks the permanent end of menstruation and fertility in women, typically occurring in their late 40s or early 50s. It is diagnosed after a woman has gone 12 months without a menstrual period. During this transition, the ovaries gradually produce less estrogen and progesterone, leading to various physical and emotional symptoms.

Additional Information

Common symptoms of menopause include hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, mood changes, sleep disturbances, and weight gain. The years leading up to menopause, known as perimenopause, can also bring irregular periods and other symptoms as hormone levels fluctuate.

After menopause, women no longer have menstrual periods or can get pregnant naturally. However, they are still at risk for certain health conditions, such as osteoporosis and heart disease, due to the decrease in estrogen. Hormone replacement therapy and lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms and reduce health risks.