Menopause is a stage that marks the transition between the reproductive and non-reproductive stages and is determined by the cessation of ovarian activity and, therefore, of menstruation.
The average age at which it happens is between 45 and 55 years. Although this is a purely biomedical definition, we cannot forget that it is a complex transition for all women.
There are several phases with different durations (which depend on each woman). So we have:
Pre-menopause: In this phase, the rates of estrogen and progesterone begin to change, although they are not always noticed. And there may be menstrual imbalances.
Perimenopause: It usually begins between 45 and 50, and this is the transition phase to Menopause.
Menopause: It is the last period. However, only after 1 year can it be determined that that last bleeding was Menopause. So it is a very punctual event. And it is associated with Perimenopause.
Some common symptoms of Menopause are weight gain, slow metabolism, trouble sleeping, anxiety, PMS, night sweats, joint aches, poor memory, depression, and hot flashes.
Menopause is a different battlefield for all women, but you are not alone in this fight. Menopause Mama’s is a blog designated for this challenging battlefield. Menopause Mama’s services are an essential tool that will help you create a path between the stages of Menopause and your health.
References:
Publishing, H. H. (0AD). Menopause. https://www.health.harvard.edu/topics/menopause.
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (0AD). What Is Menopause? National Institute on Aging. https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/what-menopause.