Exploring Menopause

The Causes of Menopause including naturally occurring menopause, Primary Ovarian Insufficiency (POI), and induced menopause are explored. The most common cause is naturally occurring menopause, typically between 45 and 55 years. POI, also called Premature Ovarian Insufficiency and Premature Ovarian Failure, can lead to premature menopause before age 40. Menopause can also be induced by surgical or medical intervention at any age.

The Stages of Menopause including perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause are explored. Perimenopause, the first stage, typically lasts two to eight years, averaging around four years. Menopause is confirmed when a woman has not had a period for 12 consecutive months. Postmenopause follows menopause, and a woman remains in this stage for the remainder of her life.

Symptoms of Menopause covers many of the well- and lesser-known and symptoms that women may experience. As women have estrogen receptors in all areas of their body, they can experience symptoms on many dimensions. These include Physical and Physiological; Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM); Cognitive and Thinking; and Mood and Psychological. Specific symptoms in these categories are covered.

The Diagnosis of Menopause section addresses three components surrounding this topic. First, how and when menopause is diagnosed, and what healthcare professionals may or may not complete in the process. Second, the importance of keeping track of menstrual cycles and menopause symptoms in guiding diagnosis and treatment. Last, how being prepared–before, during, and after–appointments can enhance the menopause journey.

Impacts of Menopause provides information on the potential impacts the rapid decline in estrogen during menopause can introduce. Consequences and risks like cardiovascular disease are covered, as well as health screenings and testing for monitoring and early detection. Prevention and safeguarding strategies are also included for overall health and wellbeing.

Menopause Treatment options are varied and depend on a woman’s individual circumstances. Options explored include Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) medication, procedures and surgery, conventional and traditional therapies, complementary and alternative therapies, dietary supplements, and products and devices.

Menopause Management goes beyond medical treatments to encompass overall health, wellbeing and lifestyle. It takes a holistic approach, looking at various aspects that interact and impact health. Specifically, mindset and environment, diet and lifestyle, exercise and activity, sleep and recovery, employment and social interaction, and relationships and sexual health, are explored.

Our Menopause Guides cover a range of topics related to menopause. The guides are designed to give you detailed information, ideas, and strategies that delve deeper into the static menopause content on this site, like symptoms, treatment, and management. Topics like sex and relationships are covered, and how you can navigate these with patience, positivity, and resilience.