Menopause: duration and main symptoms

Menopause is a long-term phase in a woman’s life that consists of three stages: perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause.

Perimenopause usually begins between the ages of 45 and 55. During this time, menstrual cycles become irregular and hormone levels drop. Women may experience hot flashes, difficulty sleeping, mood swings, joint pain, vaginal dryness or itching, and irritability and forgetfulness.

Studies of female biology suggest that perimenopause can last anywhere from a few months to eight years, with an average of about six years. The length of this period depends on many factors, including heredity, lifestyle, culture, environment, race, and ethnicity. Women who smoke, have a family history of early menopause, or have had ovarian surgery or cancer treatment are at increased risk for early menopause.

Menopause occurs after 12 months without menstruation, when the ovaries stop producing estrogen and eggs entirely. On average, this period occurs at about 52 years of age. After this, postmenopause begins, which lasts for life. Although reproductive function ends, some symptoms may persist for a long time.

During postmenopause, the risk of heart disease, osteoporosis, falls, urinary tract infections, and mental health problems increases significantly. During this period, metabolism can change: women may gain weight, reduce bone density, and notice increased abdominal fat.

It has also been previously reported that mature women are more likely to experience eating disorders, which are caused by various reasons.