Menopause is a normal event in a women’s life and usually happens between the ages of 45 and 55 years and signals the end of the fertile phase in a women’s life. It is the cessation of ovarian function and the gradual elimination of the menstrual cycle, the transition from potentially reproductive to a non-reproductive state.

This transition is normally not sudden or abrupt and tends to occur over a period of years – it is the consequence of biological aging.Menopause may be artificially induced by the removal of the ovaries or a hysterectomy. For some women, the accompanying signs and effects that may occur during the menopause transition years can be significant and disrupt their daily activities and sense of well-being.

When the process is normal and takes its gradual course, the adrenals and liver increase their output of female hormones – primarily estrogen – and make up the difference from the lost ovarian function. Hot flashes are a common symptom when insufficient estrogen is produced by the adrenal glands and the liver. Other symptoms may include: sweating, nervousness, anxieties, fatigue, depression, insomnia, tingling and urinary frequency and incontinence as well as gradual weight gain. In addition back pain, joint pain, muscle pain and the risk of osteoporosis may gradually develop over time.

Treatment for menopause is probably an improper term as normal events don’t need treatment but rather support on occasion to smooth the transition.