What is menopause?

Menopause is a natural stage of life when menstrual periods stop permanently. It marks the end of the body’s ability to become pregnant. This change happens as hormone levels—especially estrogen—decline over time.

Most people reach menopause in their late 40s to early 50s. The transition leading up to it, called perimenopause, can last several years and often brings noticeable changes.

These changes are mainly due to declining hormone levels. Certain factors can influence when menopause begins, including smoking, genetics, and medical treatments like chemotherapy or surgery involving the ovaries.

Symptoms

Menopause happens as part of the body’s normal aging process, but symptoms can look different for everyone.

Common symptoms include:

• Sudden waves of heat (hot flashes)
• Night sweats that disrupt sleep
• Vaginal dryness or discomfort during sex
• Mood changes, including irritability or anxiety
• Trouble sleeping or feeling fatigued
• Heart palpitations or occasional dizziness
• Thinning hair or changes in hair growth
• Urinary symptoms, such as leakage or frequent infections

How is it diagnosed?

Healthcare providers usually identify menopause based on your health history. If you have gone 12 months without a menstrual period, menopause has likely occurred.

Your provider may also ask about symptoms and, in some cases, check hormone levels if the diagnosis is unclear or happens earlier than expected.

How is it treated?

Treatment focuses on easing symptoms and improving quality of life. Many people find relief with simple, non-medical approaches, while others may benefit from medications.

Common treatment options include:

• Lifestyle changes: dressing in layers, managing stress, and avoiding triggers like spicy foods or caffeine
• Hormone therapy: replaces estrogen (and sometimes progesterone) to reduce symptoms
• Non-hormonal medications: help manage hot flashes, mood changes, or sleep issues
• Vaginal estrogen: targets dryness and discomfort locally

Your care team will help you choose options that fit your health history and personal preferences. When hormone therapy is used, it’s typically prescribed at the lowest effective dose for the shortest time needed.