Understanding Menopause
Menopause is a natural life stage that marks the end of menstrual cycles. It happens when the ovaries slow down production of hormones such as oestrogen and progesterone, and a person has had no period for 12 months. Menopause isn’t an illness — it’s a normal, biological transition that every woman will experience in her own way.
Perimenopause: The Transition Phase
Perimenopause is the phase leading up to menopause, when hormone levels start to fluctuate. This can begin in the 40s (sometimes earlier) and often lasts several years. During this time, periods may change — becoming irregular, heavier, lighter, or more spaced out. Because ovulation can still occur, pregnancy is still possible in perimenopause.
Menopause: The Final Period
Menopause is confirmed once 12 consecutive months have passed without a period. In Australia, this typically occurs between 45 and 55, with the average age around 51. Some women may experience menopause earlier due to medical treatments, genetics, or surgical removal of the ovaries.
Postmenopause: Life After Periods
Postmenopause is the time after menopause has occurred. Hormone levels remain low, and while periods do not return, overall health needs may change. This stage is an opportunity to focus on long-term wellbeing — including bone, heart, metabolic, and mental health.
A Normal Part of Ageing
Menopause is a universal transition, but every woman’s experience is unique. Some notice only subtle changes, while others may find the shift more disruptive.
Perimenopause & Menopause Symptoms
Things that can help
Menopause by the Numbers
51 yrs
The average age of menopause for Australian women
80%
4 in 5 women will report at least one symptom of menopause
20-30%
Up to one third of women experience moderate to severe symptoms
5-10 yrs
Symptoms of menopause generally last 5 to 10 years
60%
Of women working during their menopause years found the experience challenging
50%
Women experiencing menopause were less likely to apply for promotion
Retire
Over 35% of women experiencing menopause were more likely to retire early
Weight
Menopause-related weight gain increases the risk of diabetes, heart disease, and dementia
x2
Post-menopausal women are twice as likely to develop high blood pressure
200-300%
Post-menopausal women are at 2 to 3 times higher risk of coronary heart disease
10%
Post-menopausal women on average lose up to 10% of her bone mass in the first 5 years
1/2
Of women over 60 have osteoporosis, 1 in 3 will experience fractures