Menopause is when a woman permanently stops getting her menstrual periods. It typically occurs to women in their 40s and 50s and signals the end of their fertility. When a woman hits menopause, the primary functions of the ovaries stop. The ripening of the ova (egg), the creation of the uterine lining and the subsequent shedding of the lining (period/menses) ceases.
Menopause can be an uncomfortable time for many women with symptoms such as irregular menstruation, hot flashes, difficulty sleeping, vaginal and urinary problems, mood swings, forgetfulness and tenderness in the breasts. There are steps we can take to help make this transition in your life more comfortable.