Menopause is the last or final menstrual (monthly) period and is a natural part of every woman’s life. It means the end of a woman’s reproductive years, just as the first menstrual period, means the start. Most women reach menopause between the ages of 48 and 55 but the range is 45-60 years. Menopause symptoms can begin gradually over two to six years before the last menstrual period. This time is called the perimenopause - from the time periods become irregular until 12 months after that final period.

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Early and premature menopause

Menopause is considered 'early' when menstrual periods stop permanently before the age of 45. If they stop before the age of 40, this is termed 'premature menopause'. Early or premature menopause may occur:

• naturally, when the ovaries have stopped working
• surgically, when a woman has her ovaries removed
• chemically, from chemotherapy or radiotherapy for cancer

Women who experience early menopause are at greater risk of osteoporosis and heart disease because of the long-term effects of low oestrogen levels. If you think you are experiencing early or premature menopause, it is important to talk to your doctor.

For more information, see our website Early Menopause

Hirsutism

What is hirsutism? Hirsutism is an excess of hair on the face and/or body, due to high levels of androgens stimulating the hair follicles. More...

Perimenopause

What is perimenopause? Perimenopause occurs because the ovaries run low on eggs or follicles. The menstrual cycle may become irregular, and our hormones cause complex changes within the ovaries, brain and uterus. More...

Signs and symptoms

Nowadays, the word 'menopause' tends to have broadened to include what is medically termed 'the climacteric'. This is the transition phase during which the body is undergoing changes. For most women these changes occur gradually over two to six years around the last menstrual period. It is in these years that symptoms of menopause can occur. More...

Surgical menopause

What is surgical menopause? Surgical menopause is menopause that occurs as a result of the removal of the ovaries in a woman who is still having periods. More...

Your options

Improved health, nutrition and medical treatments have resulted in increased life expectancy for both men and women. A great deal of research has been done and is still continuing into the effects on women's long-term health during this time of life. More...

Your questions

Find here answers to frequently asked questions about menopause. More...

Content updated December 16, 2010