Menopause

Permanent cessation of menstruation resulting from loss of ovarian follicular activity (World Health Organisation [WHO]) 

Premature menopause

Menopause occurring before the age of 40 years It may occur spontaneously (premature ovarian failure) or as a result of therapeutic intervention.

Early menopause

Menopause occurring before the age of 45 years. 

Surgical menopause

Menopause as a result of bilateral oophorectomy. 

Menopausal transition

Period of time immediately before menopause when the endocrinological, biological and clinical features of approaching menopause commence (WHO) 

Perimenopause

Time period beginning with the first symptoms of the approaching menopause and ending 12 months after the final menses. 

Climacteric

Synonymous with perimenopause

Key Points: Definitions

• Menopause is the permanent cessation of menstruation resulting from loss of ovarian follicular activity with premature menopause occurring prior to age 40 years.
• Menopause is diagnosed retrospectively following 12 months of amenorrhea  in association with elevated gonadotrophins and oestrogen deficiency.
• The menopausal transition is the period of time leading up to the menopause.
• Bilateral oophorectomy (surgical menopause) results in immediate onset of menopause. 
• Hypopituitarism is an uncommon cause of menopause (secondary ovarian failure)and is associated with low gonadotrophins and oestradiol.