Menopause: Symptoms, Timeline and Treatment

Menopause is defined as 12 consecutive months without a period, typically around age 51. The transition (perimenopause) begins 4-8 years earlier as estrogen and progesterone decline.

Common symptoms include hot flashes (75% of women), night sweats, vaginal dryness, mood changes, sleep disturbances, and cognitive changes. Long-term effects include osteoporosis and cardiovascular risk changes.

Menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) is the most effective treatment for vasomotor symptoms and protects bone density. Non-hormonal options include SSRIs, SNRIs, gabapentin, and fezolinetant.

Lifestyle strategies: weight-bearing exercise, calcium and vitamin D, avoiding smoking, limiting alcohol. Regular monitoring of bone density and cardiovascular risk guides individualized management.

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