Menopause is a natural biological event that marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years. According to the World Health Organization (WHO, 1996), menopause is defined as the permanent cessation of menstruation resulting from the loss of ovarian follicular activity. It is diagnosed after 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period, not due to any pathological or physiological cause.
The report explains that menopause typically occurs between ages 45 and 55, with variations depending on genetics, environment, and overall health. It is not a disease, but a normal life transition that all women go through.
What Happens Biologically?
As a woman approaches menopause, her ovaries gradually reduce their production of steroid and peptide hormones, especially estrogen, progesterone, and inhibin. This hormonal decline leads to:
1. Irregular menstrual cycles
2. Eventual cessation of menstruation
3. Physical and psychological symptoms (such as hot flashes, mood changes, and sleep disturbances)
The WHO report highlights that the endocrine changes associated with menopause have wide-ranging effects on the body, influencing bone health, cardiovascular function, and mental well-being.