Menopause symptoms may begin several years before your periods actually end and last for several months or several years after that. Women usually notice the beginning of perimenopause symptoms in their 40’s and irregularities usually persist for approximately five years. The average age of actual menopause in the U.S. is around 51.

The best way to cope with the challenges of this time in your life?

• Start by using our menopause assessment tool to figure out where you are in the process.
• Then spend time learning about and understanding the symptoms of menopause.
• Finally, explore the lifestyle changes and treatment options that will help you feel your best.
  
  

As you go through these steps, it is important to remember that the “change” called menopause is a natural, normal phase of female development. Not a disease process. While we speak of symptoms and treatments, those are only comfortable terms to describe what you may be feeling and what you can do about it. While you may be scared and frustrated by what’s happening, please don’t consider yourself sick as you go through this transition.

At the same time, you may have important questions about the effects of changing hormones on your body and about the illnesses that may become more likely as you age. Answers to these questions may be found in the Health Concerns section of the site. An area expressly developed to answer the myriad of concerns you may have.