There are how many stages of menopause?

You likely know what it means to go through menopause — but did you know there are four separate stages in the journey?

The terminology can be confusing, so let’s break it down.

While not an official medical term, premenopause refers to the later years of your reproductive life or the end of your childbearing years. Immediately following this is perimenopause, the transitional time leading up to your final period. This phase is usually marked by a change in bleeding habits such as irregular or missed periods. It’s also common to experience symptoms like hot flashes and vaginal dryness, as your hormones begin to shift. Often beginning in your mid-forties, perimenopause typically lasts between four and eight years.¹

Defined as your final menstrual period, menopause is actually one, single moment in time. You’ll know a period was your last after you’ve gone a consecutive 12 months without experiencing another one. The average age of menopause is 51, but it usually occurs from ages 40-58.² Finally, the last stage, when you haven’t had a period in 12 months and one day, is known as postmenopause.

Even though there are different stages, the symptoms may be similar – sometimes varying only in frequency or intensity. Always speak with your provider if you have concerns about any symptoms you’re experiencing.

1. https://www.menopause.org/for-women/menopauseflashes/menopause-symptoms-and-treatments/menopause-101-a-primer-for-the-perimenopausal

2. https:// www.menopause.org/for-women/menopauseflashes/menopause-symptoms-and-treatments/menopause-101-a-primer-for-the-perimenopausal