Description
Menopause signifies the end of a woman’s reproductive function following the loss of ovarian follicular activity or surgical removal of both ovaries. Typical symptoms of the decline in estrogen that occurs through the menopause include vasomotor symptoms (VMS) such as hot flushes and night sweats, as well as joint pain, vaginal dryness, sleep disturbances and mood changes. Menopause is often diagnosed retrospectively, when a woman over the age of 40 years has not experienced a spontaneous menstrual bleed for at least 12 months.