Three Phases of Menopause

Life — especially midlife — is full of transitions. You may be caring for aging parents, helping your children step into adulthood or taking on new challenges at work. Amid all these changes, menopause can feel like one more adjustment to manage. But while it may seem daunting, menopause is a gradual, natural process that unfolds over several years. 

Perimenopause: The Early Changes 

For most women, the transition begins between the ages of 45 and 55. During this time, your body starts producing less estrogen, and you may notice changes such as irregular menstrual periods, hot flashes, sore breasts, mood swings, a lower sex drive or vaginal dryness.

Although these shifts can be uncomfortable, they’re all signs that your body is entering a new phase. Regular sexual activity can help maintain vaginal health by promoting blood flow. It’s also important to continue using contraception until you’ve gone a full year without a period, since your ovaries may still release eggs. Supporting your overall well-being with a healthy diet and regular exercise can also protect your bones and heart as hormone levels change. 

Menopause: A Defining Milestone 

About four years after perimenopause begins, your periods stop altogether. Once you’ve gone 12 consecutive months without one, you’ve officially reached menopause. At this stage, your ovaries are no longer releasing eggs or producing much estrogen. You might notice hot flashes becoming more frequent or find that your sleep patterns change.

Even though you can no longer become pregnant, it’s still important to practice safe sex, since sexually transmitted infections can occur at any age. 

Postmenopause: Finding Balance Again 

After a full year without a period, you enter postmenopause. Many women find that hot flashes and breast tenderness start to ease over time, although vaginal dryness can persist. This is also the time to pay closer attention to preventive care. The loss of estrogen can increase your risk for conditions such as osteoporosis and heart disease, so regular checkups and screenings are more important than ever. 

When Menopause Happens Early 

Some women experience menopause earlier than expected. This can happen naturally or as a result of surgery or treatments — such as hysterectomy, chemotherapy or radiation — that stop the ovaries from producing eggs. When menopause occurs before age 40, it’s called premature menopause. 

Your Next Step 

If you notice signs of menopause, schedule a checkup with your doctor. Together, you can discuss ways to relieve symptoms and protect your overall health through this new stage of life. Menopause is not an ending — it’s another natural chapter in your lifelong journey of change and growth.