Menopause Explained

Menopause is the point in time when you haven’t had a period for 12 months in a row, without pregnancy, illness, or medication as the cause. It signals the end of your reproductive years and usually occurs between ages 45 and 55, though it can happen earlier or later. 

When you reach menopause, your ovaries stop releasing eggs and estrogen levels drop significantly. During your reproductive years, the main form of estrogen, estradiol, rises and falls throughout the menstrual cycle. 

After menopause, estradiol levels usually fall below 30 pg/mL. At this stage, a weaker form of estrogen called estrone, which is mainly produced in body fat, becomes the primary type of estrogen.

Because menopause marks the end of monthly periods, it’s important to let your healthcare provider know if you notice any vaginal bleeding afterward. Even light spotting should be checked, as it may point to an underlying condition.

Menopause itself is just one point in time, the 12-month mark without periods. The symptoms, however, may start during perimenopause and continue into postmenopause.

Menopause isn’t just a medical milestone, it’s a transition. And like any transition, it can feel overwhelming without support. 

Menopause Spotlight offers practical tools, real-life stories, and resources to help you feel more informed, less alone, and ready to navigate what’s next.