The menopause is defined as the cessation of menstruation. The term menopause is often used incorrectly – menopause means a woman’s last menstrual period. Climacteric describes the gradual changes and symptoms which occur as the production of hormones, and ovarian function, diminishes. In the UK, the average age for a woman affected by the menopause is 51. However, women can begin to experience changes to their physiology for up to 10 years before the menopause, this period is known as perimenopause.
Last updated on 3rd January 2024 by cytoffice