
Menopause is defined as occurring 12 months after your last menstrual period and marks the end of menstrual cycles. It can happen in your 40s or 50s and is a natural biological process. Although menopause also ends fertility, you can stay healthy, vital and sexual. Some women feel relieved because they no longer need to worry about pregnancy. Even so, the physical symptoms, such as hot flashes, and emotional symptoms of menopause may disrupt your sleep, lower your energy or — for some women — trigger anxiety or feelings of sadness and loss.
Mayo Clinic experts say, although symptoms vary, there are three facts about menopause every woman should know. In this Mayo Clinic Minute, reporter Vivien Williams talks to Dr. Stephanie Faubion, director of Mayo Clinic's Women's Health Clinic, about menopause.
Journalists:
In the months or years leading up to menopause (perimenopause), you might experience these signs and symptoms:
Skipping periods during perimenopause is common and expected. Often, menstrual periods will occur every two to four months during perimenopause, especially one to two years before menopause. Despite irregular periods, pregnancy is possible. If you've skipped a period but aren't sure you've started the menopausal transition, you may want to determine whether you're pregnant.
Starting at perimenopause, schedule regular visits with your doctor for preventive health care and any medical concerns. Continue getting these appointments during and after menopause.
Preventive health care can include recommended screenings at menopause, such as a colonoscopy, mammography, lipid screening, thyroid testing if suggested by your history, and breast and pelvic exams.
Always seek medical advice if you have bleeding from your vagina after menopause.
The 2022 SPARK scholars gather for a photo before the Mayo Clinic SPARK Mini Science Fair on Mayo Clinic's campus in Jacksonville, Florida. Back row: ...
In January 2021, after being in remission from melanoma for almost a decade, Christina Armendariz began to feel unwell. The 42-year-old mother went to the emergency ...
Changes to your breast can cause a lot of worry. This is understandable. But not all breast changes are a result of breast cancer. Any breast ...