What is menopause?

Menopause is a natural part of life, but for many it feels like a mystery when the body starts to change. Suddenly your periods behave differently, your mood swings and your body doesn't quite feel the same. Here you will get an educational explanation of what menopause is, common symptoms and when it usually starts.

What is menopause?

Menopause is the transitional years before menstruation stops completely. This is because the production of estrogen and progesterone in the ovaries decreases, which affects the entire body. The hormones that previously controlled the menstrual cycle become more irregular, and finally the last period comes, something called menopause.

It is not a disease, but a natural phase in life that all women go through. However, the symptoms can vary greatly from person to person.

Common symptoms of menopause

Hormonal fluctuations can cause many different feelings, some barely notice them, while others are greatly affected in their everyday lives.

Some common symptoms are:

• Hot flashes and sweating, sudden attacks of heat, often at night

• Sleep problems, difficulty falling asleep or waking up from sweating

• Mood swings

• Brain fog, difficulty concentrating or remembering things

• Altered libido and dry mucous membranes, common but rarely talked about

When does menopause begin?

Menopause usually begins sometime between the ages of 45 and 55, but can occur earlier or later. Menopause occurs in different phases:

• Premenopause (perimenopause): this is when hormones start to fluctuate, periods become irregular, and symptoms may appear. This phase can last for several years.

• Menopause: the very last period. It is usually said that menopause is when you have not had a period for a whole year.

• After menopause (postmenopause): symptoms may continue for some time but usually eventually subside.