What is menopause?

End of one's period: Menopause is defined as the absence of menstruation (one's period) for a year. The ovaries have stop releasing eggs (ovulating), and estrogen and Progesterone levels fall off as well. One's period becomes intermittent, vaginal bleeding becomes irregular, and then stops, all over a course of several months. Symptoms include hot flashes, mood and sleep changes, thinning hair, less full breasts.

The end of periods: The medical definition of menopause is no periods for a year. The average age at menopause is around 50 yo. Usually periods become more irregular before they finally stop. It's not possible to predict the final menstrual period very accurately. It occurs when the ovaries stop producing hormones.

End of periods.: Menopause is the naturally occurring cessation of menses. It can come early or in some cases be prolonged. Usually occurs in the early 50's. This is due to "ovarian failure". It is a natural process. Can be causes by illness and medications and of course surgery if the ovaries are removed. Some women welcome it. Others have disdain due to hot flashes that may occur.

No periods: Technically it is the cessation of menses for more than one year due to ovarian failure, average age is 52 but can have erratically functioning ovaries for 5 years. This may cause shifts in hormones, heavier bleeding, insomnia and is correllated with sleep disruption in some women. Consequently it can affect mood. It can also occur if the ovaries are suddenly removed.