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Symptoms
Information to help navigate the most common symptoms of menopause.
Vaginal dryness
Unfortunately, vaginal dryness is something that is persistent as we age. Lubrication and conversation may be the best approaches to dealing with this symptom.
Irregular Periods
Irregular periods may be a sign that you are in menopausal transition. It can be years before you are menopausal so it’s important to know what is considered normal and what isn’t.
Hot Flashes and Night Sweats
The most common symptom of menopause is the hot flash. When they occur at night, they are called night sweats. Here’s some information on how to cope.
Know the Numbers
Menopause statistics
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FAQs
Common questions about menopause and about the National Menopause Foundation
What is the difference between perimenopause, menopause and post-menopause?
Perimenopause, menopause and post-menopause are the phases during the menopausal transition. Perimenopause usually begins several years before menopause as the ovaries start to produce less estrogen. This phase lasts up until menopause when the ovaries stop releasing eggs. Menopause is when a woman has not had her period for one full year. Post-menopause begins immediately following menopause, when a woman’s ovaries no longer release eggs or produce estrogen. Women remain the rest of their lives “post-menopausal.”
When does menopause generally happen?
Menopause can happen at various ages, but most women experience menopause between ages 45 and 55, with the average age around 51. Menopause is considered early between the ages of 40-45 and late between 55-60. Menopause is considered premature when it happens before the age of 40. Although menopause is “natural” for most women, meaning there is a gradual end to their menstrual cycles. Women who have both ovaries surgically removed will experience immediate menopause. Women who have hysterectomies (removal of the uterus) will not experience menopause immediately as long as the ovaries are still in place. However, women who have hysterectomies tend to go through menopause a few years earlier than the average.
How did the National Menopause Foundation start?
Our founder and CEO, Claire Gill, worked in nonprofit women’s health for many years when she realized there was no national nonprofit dedicated solely to educating and advocating for women at menopause. She decided to create one. The organization received 501c3 nonprofit status in March of 2019 and with help from colleagues in the healthcare and nonprofit industries, Claire set out to create what is now the National Menopause Foundation.
How can I donate and what will my donation be used for?
You can use our secure online donation form to donate with your credit or debit card. Donate by mail by sending a check or money order (in U.S. Dollars from a U.S. Bank) payable to the National Menopause Foundation to 5680 King Centre Drive, Suite 600, Alexandria, VA 22315. Your unrestricted donation allows the National Menopause Foundation to build its capacity to serve women and improve women’s health at midlife through education, advocacy, peer-to-peer support, and research. It allows the Foundation to respond to new initiatives and unanticipated opportunities. Thank you for considering a donation in support of our mission!
Learn everything you need to know about the journey to and through menopause.
