Menopause

Menopause is a natural stage in the life of all people who have periods. It results from the cessation of ovarian activity, accompanied by a decrease in the levels of oestrogen present in the bloodstream. It most commonly occurs in women between the ages of 45 and 55, but can occur earlier. After menopause, a woman is generally no longer able to conceive a child, except in exceptional circumstances involving assisted reproductive technologies.

Menopause usually sets in gradually, often initially marked by a phase of irregular menstrual cycles. This transitional phase is known as ‘perimenopause’. Menopause is considered to have occurred after 12 consecutive months without a period.

The perimenopause phase can last for several years and affect well-being on a physical, emotional, mental and social level. There are various treatments, hormonal or otherwise, available to alleviate the symptoms associated with perimenopause and menopause.

Menopause can occur naturally or be linked to certain situations, such as surgery to remove the ovaries (oophorectomy) or the uterus (hysterectomy), cancer treatments such as chemotherapy, or a genetic cause. Sometimes, the cause remains unknown.