Menopause

Menopause is the point at which menstrual periods permanently stop, marking the end of the reproductive phase of a female human life. Physicians usually recognize it once a year has passed with no menstrual bleeding, and the wider menopausal transition is divided into perimenopause, menopause and postmenopause. It most often occurs naturally between about 45 and 55 years of age as production of estrogen and progesterone falls, but surgery that removes both ovaries, some chemotherapy and early ovarian failure can bring it on sooner. Hot flashes, night sweats, sleep trouble, mood changes and vaginal dryness are common symptoms, and the longer-term effects include bone loss and a higher risk of osteoporosis and cardiometabolic disease. Treatment includes menopausal hormone therapy and several non-hormonal options.