Information on Menopause
Menopause is the time in a woman's life in which her body makes natural changes that result in her no longer having a period. It is caused by lower levels of estrogen and progestin in the body, and may cause symptoms such as hot flashes or night sweats.
Menopause doesn't usually occur before age 40, but can happen any time from your 30s to your mid-50s or later; the average age of women who reach menopause is 51. A full year without a period is needed before you can say you have been "through menopause."
(Click Menopause for more information on the symptoms that may occur as you approach menopause and to find out what can cause early menopause.)