Menopause Basics

Included on this page are 20 essentials covering an overview of menopause. These essentials cover what it is, what causes it, when it starts, how long it lasts, the stages, hormonal changes, the signs and symptoms, the health impacts, and how it is diagnosed, treated and managed.

1. Menopause is a natural biological process marking the end of menstrual cycles and fertility in women.
2. Menopause results from the loss of ovarian follicular function and a decline in circulating blood estrogen levels.
3. The causes of menopause include naturally occurring menopause, Primary Ovarian Insufficiency (POI), and induced menopause.
4. Naturally occurring menopause occurs between 45 and 55 years, while premature occurs before 40 years, early between 40 and 45 years, and late after 55 years.
5. POI can lead to premature menopause, and premature menopause can also be induced.
6. Induced menopause can result from surgical interventions such as a bilateral oophorectomy or medical interventions such as pelvic radiation therapy.
7. Menopause typically starts between the ages of 45 and 55, with the average age being 51 in the United States.

8. There are three stages involved in menopause, including perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause.
9. Perimenopause, the first stage, typically lasts two to eight years, averaging around four years.
10. Menopause, the second stage, is when a woman has not had a menstrual period for 12 consecutive months, including spotting.
11. Postmenopause follows menopause, and a woman remains in this stage for the remainder of her life.

12. The transition through menopause is driven by hormonal fluctuations, particularly a decrease in estrogen and progesterone.
13. Early signs of menopause include changes in menstrual patterns, hot flashes, vaginal dryness, mood changes, and sleep disturbances.
14. Identifying early signs and symptoms during perimenopause may be difficult, as they are often commonly experienced.
15. Symptoms of menopause include physical changes like weight gain, sexual changes like low sex drive, mood changes like mood swings, and cognitive changes like brain fog.

16. Menopause is typically diagnosed retrospectively after 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period, including spotting.
17. The hormonal fluctuation during menopause can lead to health risks such as osteoporosis, metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular disease, and cognitive decline.
18. Treatment options for menopause include Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), medications, procedures, therapies, dietary supplements, and devices.
19. Management options for menopause include mindset, diet, lifestyle, exercise, sleep, employment, relationships, and sexual health changes.
20. A holistic approach to navigating menopause includes balancing health risks with wellness strategies and medical guidance.

To learn more, visit the Menopause 101 page.