Menopause is the stopping of the production of ovarian hormones (estrogen and progesterone) which results in the end of menstruation. Menopause is considered to have happened after at least 12 months of stopping your period.

The average age of menopause in Western societies is 51 years old. It usually occurs between the ages of 42 and 56.

Natural menopause is preceded by a period of a few years called perimenopause (or premenopause in common parlance) during which the ovaries gradually produce less estrogen and the main sign of which is an irregular period. Another frequent sign is an increase in PMS.

In the last or two years of perimenopause, the decline in estrogen accelerates and many women experience more symptoms. The symptoms of menopause vary from woman to woman, and in the same woman they vary over time. One in two women would experience only moderate symptoms. Some do not experience symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats.

Menopause is also accompanied by changes in the structure and texture of the skin which are influenced by sex hormones. After menopause, the skin becomes thinner and more fragile.

Premenopause can be recognized by the following signs: heat, breast tenderness, increased PMS, decreased libido, fatigue, irregular periods, vaginal dryness and discomfort during sex, urine leakage, sudden changes in mood, etc.

The severity of symptoms and their impact on quality of life may be closely related to stress level and general health.