The end of a woman’s reproductive years is marked by menopause. It is an entirely natural process involving hormonal and physiological changes. Knowing what to expect can help to ease the transition. Menopause affects everyone differently. This can be a difficult time for some, especially if hormonal changes cause symptoms like hot flashes and anxiety. Others see it as a liberating time when they no longer have to think about menstruation or birth control.

Here are ten important menopause facts to help you better understand the process.

1. Menopause does not occur suddenly.Menopause
Most women do not experience menopause suddenly. It is a process, not a specific point in time. Perimenopause begins when estrogen and progesterone levels begin to fall in a person’s 30s or 40s. Periods may become less regular until they cease altogether.

Menopause usually begins 12 months after the last menstrual period. According to the North American Menopause Society, this occurs between the ages of 40 and 58, with the average being 51 years. Hot flashes typically last 6 months to 2 years, but they can last 10 years or longer.


Menopause will begin almost immediately if a person has surgery to remove their ovaries. More information on surgical menopause can be found here. Menopause can be triggered by certain medical treatments, such as chemotherapy. In some cases, this is only temporary, and menstruation resumes at some point after treatment is completed.

Menopause can also start at a younger age due to certain medical conditions.

How do you spot menopause? Find out more here.

2. Perimenopause can begin in your 30s.Menopause
Perimenopause is the period preceding menopause. It has a lifespan of 4-8 years. Estrogen and progesterone levels gradually decline during perimenopause.

Menstruation becomes less regular, and menopausal symptoms may appear.


These are some examples:

• Night sweats and hot flashes

• dry vaginal skin

Anyone concerned about symptoms should consult a doctor to ensure that they are not the result of a medical condition, such as an overactive thyroid.

A missed period in one’s forties could indicate either pregnancy or menopause.

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