Menopause is the transitional period in a woman's life when her ovaries start producing less of the sex hormones estrogen and progesterone. Menopause is declared when a woman ceases to have a menstrual period for 12 consecutive months, marking the end of her reproductive years. A woman who has her ovaries surgically removed immediately enters menopause.
What Is Menopause? (Plain Language Explanation)
Menopause refers to a pattern of thoughts, feelings, and behaviors that many people experience. While it can be challenging, it's also well-understood and treatable.
Key Terms to Know About Menopause
- Symptoms: The specific ways menopause shows up for you
- Triggers: Situations or thoughts that activate or worsen menopause
- Evidence-based: Treatments backed by scientific research
- Comorbidity: When menopause occurs alongside other conditions
3 Things Most People Don't Know About Menopause
- Menopause is far more common than most people realize
- Menopause is not caused by weakness — it has identifiable biological and psychological causes
- Most people with menopause see significant improvement with the right support
Your Next Steps
Learning about menopause is just the beginning. If you think you're experiencing menopause, speaking with a mental health professional is the most valuable next step.