Menopause happens when a woman's periods cease. For most ladies, it begins in their mid 40's, although it happens earlier for some and later for others. As the levels of estrogen and progesterone drop, a lady may begin to feel the symptoms of the beginnings of menopause. menopause treatment is usually a gradual process that stretches over several years. The menopause process is defined into three phases: pre-menopause or perimenopause, menopause and post-menopause.

Perimenopause can begin as much as three to five years before your last period. Some descriptions even go so far as to say perimenopause is the 15 years before your last period. Menopause symptoms may start slowly during this time. If there is one thing that is for sure about premenopause is that the one consistent thing about perimenopause is that its inconsistent. You may notice that your menstrual cycles are not as regular, ovulation is inconsistent, your cycles may last longer, and you could have sexual mood swings. You may have difficulty sleeping (menopause and insomnia).

Menopause begins once you've had your final period. Your premenopause may continue for awhile, including weight gain. Your hormone levels are adjusting to lower levels, and your body is making its final adjustments to no longer being fertile. During this second stage of menopuase, your ovaries have stopped releasing eggs, and estrogen production has dropped.

Post-menopause begins when you have not had a menstrual cycle for a year to 18 months. Most menopause symptoms have eased, or will continue to ease up as time passes. Pregnancy is no longer a possibility. With the low amounts of estrogen, however, there are new health issues you may now be faced with like osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease. Once a woman enters her post-menopausal phase of life, her risks of cardiovascular disease are equal to that of a man.

Menopause is natural, but it still is not welcome - but remember they are temporary. More than any other time in a woman's life, she needs to work with a doctor she trusts. They may be able to provide some remedies to help you deal with them. Other women choose to try natural therapies or to find alternative methods to deal with the menopausal symptoms.