Definitions, definitions.

The word ‘menopause’ is used loosely but what are the different terms you need to know?

Premenopause

the time before menopause

Perimenopause

the time “around menopause” the “transition”, tends to describe the most symptomatic period 🧠🔥😴 (Note: some may not experience any symptoms) 


Menopause

The loss of period/menses for 12 months, this may be natural/spontaneous, primary ovarian insufficiency or induced i.e. surgical removal of ovaries or iatrogenic (e.g. chemotherapy, radiation). In the UK the average age is 51 with 1 in 100 experiencing menopause prior to 40

Postmenopause

the time period after menopause

A great place to get more advice to begin learning more about menopause is ‘Women’s Health Concern’ - the patient area of the British Menopause Society. [womens-health-concern.org] AND the North American Menopause Society.