What is the menopause?

The menopause is a natural event. It literally means 'the stopping of the monthly periods', which is a sign of the end of a woman's fertility.

In simple terms the menopause is the stage when a woman's ovaries gradually stop releasing eggs. This causes a decrease in the levels of two important hormones called oestrogen and progesterone. The menstrual cycle also changes and eventually monthly periods end. For some women low oestrogen levels can cause uncomfortable side effects such as hot flushes, headaches, joint aches, mood swings and other problems.

What are the symptoms?

The symptoms of the menopause can be divided into physical and emotional, even though this division might be a bit hazy at times, with one set of symptoms feeding into the other.

Physical symptoms can include:

• hot flushes and night sweats
• aches and pains
• bladder problems
• dry skin
• problems sleeping

For more information about physical symptoms and how to alleviate them, see Symptoms and side-effects.

Emotional symptoms can include:

• anxiety or panic
• depression
• poor memory and concentration
• reduction in appetite for sex

For more information about emotional changes and how to deal with them, see the Feelings and emotions page.

You have reached the menopause when you have not had a period for one year.