Menopause
Menopause is a natural stage in a woman's life when oestrogen levels decline and menstrual periods stop permanently. It is usually diagnosed after 12 consecutive months without a period. The average age of menopause in the UK is 51, though it can occur earlier or later.
The transition period leading up to menopause, known as perimenopause, can begin several years before the final period. During this time, hormone levels fluctuate and symptoms can be variable.
Common symptoms include:
- Hot flushes and night sweats
- Difficulty sleeping
- Low mood, anxiety or difficulty concentrating
- Vaginal dryness and reduced libido
- Joint aches
Blood tests for oestradiol can help assess oestrogen levels, though they are not always necessary for diagnosis in women over 45 with typical symptoms. In younger women, hormone testing is more useful to investigate early or premature menopause.
Causes of Menopause
Menopause occurs because the ovaries gradually stop producing oestrogen and progesterone, the hormones that regulate the menstrual cycle and support reproductive function.
This is a natural biological process, but the timing can be influenced by several factors:
- Genetics strongly influence the age of menopause. Women tend to experience menopause at a similar age to their mothers
- Surgical menopause occurs immediately following removal of both ovaries (bilateral oophorectomy)
- Cancer treatments, including certain chemotherapy drugs and pelvic radiotherapy, can cause premature ovarian insufficiency
- Premature menopause (before age 40) affects around 1 in 100 women and can be caused by autoimmune conditions, genetic factors or may have no identifiable cause
- Smoking is associated with menopause occurring on average one to two years earlier
Early menopause (before 45) and premature menopause carry an increased risk of osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease due to the longer period of oestrogen deficiency.
Tests that can help check this condition
Learn more on the official NHS page .
