Natural menopause which happens between the ages of 40 and 55 (usually late 40s or early 50s).

Image: 123rf Types and stages of menopause The reduction in female hormones can cause symptoms such as hot flushes, mood swings, night sweats, anxiety, palpitations, depression, decreased libido (sex drive), sleep problems and vaginal dryness.

Discuss ongoing symptoms or particular concerns with your doctor.ĭuring menopause your body stops preparing for a baby every month – your ovaries stop releasing eggs, they make less and less of the female hormones oestrogen and progestogen, and eventually, your periods stop.

In the long term, after menopause you are more at risk of developing osteoporosis (thinning of bones) and heart disease, though lifestyle measures help to reduce this risk.

Some women have very little discomfort, while others are affected so much that they are unable to carry out their normal everyday activities.

About 70% of women have significant symptoms with menopause and 40% will see a doctor because of their symptoms.

The average in Aotearoa New Zealand is 52 years.

The usual age is between 45 and 55 years.

Menopause is a normal part of life you are said to have reached menopause after you have had no more periods for 12 months in a row.

It is a significant hormonal milestone that offers a good opportunity to assess your health and plan for the next phase of your life.

Menopause simply means the end of a woman’s menstrual periods.

When does menopause start