Stages & types

What Is Menopause?

Menopause is the point in time when you have gone 12 months without a period. It is not usually a long phase on its own, but part of a wider transition that begins before and continues afterwards.

Stage 1

Perimenopause

The transition before menopause, when hormone levels fluctuate and symptoms may begin.

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Menopause

The point reached once you have gone 12 months without a period.

Stage 3

Postmenopause

The years after menopause, when symptoms and longer-term health changes may continue.

Earlier menopause

Premature Ovarian Insufficiency

When ovarian function declines before the age of 40.

Medical menopause

Induced Menopause

Menopause caused by surgery or medical treatment affecting the ovaries.

Menopause is one moment in a longer transition

Menopause is reached once you have gone 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period. After that point, you are considered postmenopausal.

Many women think menopause itself is the whole phase. In reality, the lead-up is called perimenopause and the years after are called postmenopause. Symptoms often begin before the final period and may continue afterwards.

Average timing varies

The average age is around the early 50s, but some women experience menopause earlier and some later.

Periods often change first

For many women, periods become more irregular and more spaced out before they stop completely.

At a glance

Menopause is reached after 12 months without a period.
The lead-up is called perimenopause.
The years after are called postmenopause.
Symptoms may begin before the final period and continue afterwards.

Symptoms around menopause

Although menopause has a specific definition, women often use the word “menopause” to describe the wider transition. Symptoms around this time can include physical, emotional, sleep and cognitive changes.

Hot flushes

Night sweats

Sleep disruption

Brain fog

Anxiety or mood changes

Joint aches

Vaginal dryness

Reduced libido

Period changes

Wondering if this could be affecting you?

If you are noticing symptoms and are not sure whether they may be related to perimenopause or menopause, our tools can help you take the next step.

Check your symptoms Complete the questionnaire

Not sure where you are in the menopause transition?

You do not need to work it out on your own. Our pathway is designed to help you better understand your symptoms and take the next step with confidence.

Step 1

Symptoms Checker

Start with a quick check of the symptoms you are experiencing.

Go to checker

Step 2

Questionnaire

Complete a more detailed questionnaire to explore your symptoms further.

Start questionnaire

Step 3

Book a consult

Speak with a menopause-focused clinician about treatment and support options.

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