Explaining menopause

Menopause is a natural life stage that occurs when the ovaries have reduced function; it’s associated with lower levels of estrogen and other hormones, and marks the period when fertility ends
 

Perimenopause, or the menopausal transition, is the process leading up to menopause; perimenopause may begin around the ages of 45 to 55 and lasts an average of seven years
 

Sometime during the mid-40s, shifting hormone levels typically begin, as egg cells, which are surrounded by granulosa cells that produce hormones, are reduced in numbers 

During this time, eggs are released less frequently, leading to irregular menstrual cycles
 

Perimenopause, which means “around menopause, ” occurs as ovulation becomes less predictable, leading to changes in menstrual cycles, including longer or shorter intervals between periods, changes in flow and skipping some periods
 

Menopause marks the moment when ovulation and menstruation stop, coinciding with a drop in estrogen levels

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