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Menopause
Reviewed by Medicinsk Expert•Last updated: 2026-10-22•Women

Menopause

Menopause marks the end of your reproductive years, defined as having gone 12 months without a menstrual period.

What is menopause?

Menopause is the time in your life when you stop having your period and can no longer get pregnant. The transition leading up to this is called perimenopause, which usually begins in your 40s. The most common age for reaching menopause is between 45 and 55.

What is early and premature menopause?

Early and premature menopause occur when ovaries stop making hormones and periods cease at a younger age than usual.

  • Premature menopause: Occurs before age 40.
  • Early menopause: Occurs before age 45.

Causes can include surgery to remove the ovaries, medical treatments like chemotherapy or hormone therapy for breast cancer, family history, smoking, or certain health conditions. Note that primary ovarian insufficiency (POI) is a different condition where ovaries stop working normally before age 40, though you may still have periods and be able to get pregnant.

What are the symptoms of menopause?

As ovaries produce less estrogen and progesterone, you may experience:

  • Changes in periods: Irregular, shorter, longer, lighter, or heavier cycles.
  • Hot flashes: Sudden warm feelings in the face, neck, and chest, often accompanied by sweating (night sweats).
  • Sleep issues: Trouble falling or staying asleep, leading to fatigue and memory problems.
  • Vaginal dryness: May cause pain or discomfort during intercourse.
  • Mood changes: Feelings of anxiety, irritability, or moodiness.
  • Bladder issues: Urinary incontinence or increased risk of UTIs.

Long-term, the loss of estrogen can lead to osteoporosis (weak, brittle bones) and increased risk of heart disease and stroke due to higher cholesterol levels.

What are the treatments for the symptoms of menopause?

Lifestyle changes

  • Dress in layers and use a portable fan for hot flashes.
  • Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and spicy foods.
  • Quit smoking and maintain a healthy weight.
  • Practice good sleep hygiene and regular exercise.
  • Use relaxation techniques to lower stress.

Non-hormone treatments

  • Medicines for hot flashes, urinary incontinence, or osteoporosis.
  • Low-dose birth control pills for heavy bleeding.
  • Water-based lubricants for vaginal dryness.
  • Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) for sleep issues.

Hormone treatments

Menopausal hormone therapy (MHT), or hormone replacement therapy (HRT), uses estrogen or estrogen plus progestin to treat hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and prevent osteoporosis. It is available in pills, patches, rings, implants, gels, or creams. Consult your provider to determine if the benefits outweigh the risks for you.

Supplements, herbs, and "natural" hormone creams

Research on these products is mixed, and there is little information on their long-term safety. Always check with your provider before using these, as they may have harmful side effects or interact with other medications.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ensure adequate calcium (1,200 mg/day for women 51–70) and vitamin D (600–800 IU/day). Weight‑bearing exercises like walking or resistance training stimulate bone formation. If you have risk factors for osteoporosis, your doctor may recommend a bone density scan and possibly bisphosphonate therapy. Regular screening and early intervention help prevent fractures.
Perimenopause is the transitional phase before menopause, marked by irregular periods, hot flashes, and mood swings that can last several years. Menopause is confirmed when you have gone 12 consecutive months without a period. A blood test measuring follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and estradiol levels can help; an FSH level above 30 mIU/mL with low estradiol suggests menopause, but results can vary. Tracking cycle length and symptom patterns over time is also useful.
Regular aerobic exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding triggers like caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods, wearing breathable clothing, and practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing or yoga can lessen hot flashes. Keeping a cool bedroom, using a fan, and sleeping in light layers also improve sleep quality.
HRT is typically considered when symptoms significantly impact quality of life and if you are under 60 or within 10 years of menopause onset. Discuss with your provider the type (estrogen alone or combined estrogen‑progestin), dosage, and route (oral, transdermal). Risks include increased chances of blood clots, stroke, and breast cancer, especially with long‑term use; benefits include relief of vasomotor symptoms and prevention of bone loss. A personalized risk‑benefit assessment is essential.
Source: MedlinePlus, National Library of Medicine

MedlinePlus brings together authoritative health information from the National Library of Medicine (NLM), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and other government agencies and health-related organizations.

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