Menopause is defined as the end of a woman's monthly menstrual periods The ovaries produce hormones (including estrogen and progesterone) throughout the childbearing years of a woman's life After about age 40, as hormone levels decline, a woman may begin to notice irregular menstrual periods Periods stop when the ovaries produce low levels of hormones or almost none at all Menopause occurs either naturally or surgically (often referred to as a hysterectomy)
the last menstruation (period) of a woman The natural menopause commonly occurs between the ages of 45-55 A woman is considered to be in the menopause when 12 months have elapsed since her last period
A gradual decline in function of the ovaries reduces estrogen production. Ovulation becomes irregular and gradually ceases. The length of the menstrual cycle and periods may vary; flow may lessen or increase. Adjustment of the endocrine system to estrogen reduction causes hot flashes, often at night, with a warm sensation, flushing, and sweating; other symptoms, such as irritability and headaches, may be related more to reactions to aging. Removal or destruction of the ovaries to treat disease causes artificial menopause, with similar but more sudden effects. Changes in hormone balance usually cause no physical or mental disturbances. However, the protective effect of estrogen against osteoporosis and atherosclerosis is lost, and risks of fracture and coronary heart disease increase
the cessation of menstruation Menopause may be due to hormonal changes, surgery or drug use Natural menopause typically occurs between 45 and 60 years of age; women with HIV may experience early menopause
a time marked by the end of menstruation in females, usually occuring between the ages of 45 and 55
The end of having menstrual periods It occurs in most women between the ages of 45 and 55
Another word for the change of life The woman's ovaries produce less oestrogen and progesterone, and her periods eventually stop She can then have no more children The menopause will occur naturally with age, but it may also start suddenly because a woman has had certain surgical or medical treatments that affect the ovaries Mesothelioma A rare cancer of the lining of the lung or (less often) the abdomen The most likely cause is asbestos
The menopause is the time during which a woman gradually stops menstruating, usually when she is about fifty years old. + menopausal meno·pau·sal a menopausal woman. the time when a woman stops menstruatting, which usually happens around the age of 50 male menopause (meno- (from men ) + pausis ( PAUSE)). Final cessation of menstruation, ending female fertility. It usually begins between ages 45 and