Menopause is caused by a decrease in reproductive hormones, specifically estrogen and progesterone. In the same way that the hormonal changes in puberty vary from girl to girl, the experience of the menopause transition is different for each woman.

Menopause is defined as the absence of a menstrual cycle for 12 consecutive months. In the US, this happens on average around 51 years of age. Common symptoms of menopause include weight gain around the abdomen, hot flashes, insomnia and/or sleep disturbances, moodiness, vaginal dryness, painful sex, and so much more. The combination of these symptoms can cause anxiety or depression.

Every woman will experience menopause, either naturally or via surgical removal of the ovaries. There are treatments available, like bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (HRT), that can offer symptom relief and provide preventative health benefits.