Menopause
Menopause is a time in a woman's life when her periods (menstruation) eventually stop and the body goes through changes that no longer allow her to get pregnant. A woman has reached menopause when she has not had a period for 12 months in a row. It is a natural event that normally occurs in women age 45 - 55. Perimenopause is a distinctive transitional period that occurs during the years before and the 1 year after the last menstrual period. How many years of perimenopause precede the last menstrual period varies greatly. During perimenopause, estrogen and progesterone levels fluctuate widely. These fluctuations are thought to cause the menopausal symptoms experienced by many women in their 40s. Menopause is considered premature when it occurs before age 40. Premature menopause is also called premature ovarian failure or primary ovarian insufficiency.
Symptoms
During perimenopause, symptoms may be nonexistent, mild, moderate, or severe. Symptoms may last from 6 months to about 10 years.
Symptoms
During perimenopause, symptoms may be nonexistent, mild, moderate, or severe. Symptoms may last from 6 months to about 10 years.
- Irregular menstrual periods
- Hot flashes
