How Long Does Menopause Last?

Menopause, or the natural end of monthly menstrual cycles, typically happens between ages 45 to 55. How long menopause lasts depends on several factors, such as genetics and overall health. Symptoms like hot flashes, menstrual cycle changes, and vaginal dryness typically last seven to 14 years. Signs that menopause is coming to an end include having decreased symptoms and no periods for 12 months in a row.

Everyone experiences menopause differently, so the information about it can lead to a lot of questions and misconceptions. Read on to learn when menopause actually starts, how long it lasts, and what you can do to help the transition.

What Is Menopause?

Menopause is a normal part of aging, and it's a point in time 12 months after the last period of a person who menstruates. The years leading up to that point are called the menopausal transition, or perimenopause.

During perimenopause, the number of eggs in the ovaries starts to dwindle. Ovulation (the release of the egg) triggers periods, which space out and then stop completely as the egg supply decreases.

The body's production of estrogen and progesterone (hormones made by the ovaries) varies during perimenopause. A person's bones become less dense, and their body starts using energy differently. Fat cells also change: Weight gain may occur more easily than before.

Other perimenopause symptoms include:

• A lack of interest in sex
• Hot flashes
• Incontinence
• Trouble sleeping
• Vaginal dryness

Menopause typically happens naturally as a person who menstruates ages. Every person is different, but the menopausal transition usually starts between ages 45 and 55.

Menopause can also happen if a person has the ovaries surgically removed. Symptoms can occur even if the uterus is removed, but the ovaries are intact. Menopause can also be the result of chemotherapy or hormone therapy for breast cancer.

How Long Do Symptoms Last?

The menopausal transition is not a quick process. It usually lasts about seven years but can take as long as 14 years. The length of time spent in menopause will also vary based on lifestyle factors and the age you were when menopause began. Lifestyle factors include a high-fat or vegetarian diet, caffeine intake, and smoking.

You know when menopause is over if you haven't had a period in 12 consecutive months. Keep in mind that the clock resets if you go six months without a period and then get one. You'll have to go another 12 months without a period to say you are postmenopausal.

Managing Symptoms

Perimenopause symptoms can cause discomfort and interfere with your daily activities. Several treatments are available to help alleviate symptoms, including hormone replacement therapy (HRT).

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)

HRT may ease perimenopause symptoms like hot flashes and vaginal dryness. The ovaries gradually make less estrogen and progesterone as you reach menopause. These decreased hormone levels result in perimenopause symptoms. HRT, which is available as a pill or skin patch, supplies artificial hormones.

There are risks associated with HRT, such as an increased risk of certain cancers. A healthcare provider will likely recommend a low dose for a short period to reduce risks. Low-dose birth control pills can also be quite helpful. People who have heavy periods might benefit from a progesterone-coated intrauterine device (IUD).

Other Treatments

Other treatments are available if you don't want to undergo HRT or can't for health reasons. These include:

• Antidepressants, such as Effexor (venlafaxine), Prozac (fluoxetine), and Wellbutrin (bupropion)
• Clonidine, which is a blood pressure medication
• Gabapentin, which is an anti-seizure drug that may alleviate hot flashes

Lifestyle Changes

Lifestyle changes that might alleviate perimenopause symptoms include:

• Decreasing your caffeine intake
• Eating a nutrient-rich diet with plenty of calcium and vitamin D
• Exercising regularly
• Limiting alcohol
• Practicing meditation or yoga
• Trying Kegel exercises to strengthen the vaginal muscles
• Using vaginal moisturizers to treat vaginal dryness
• Wearing light clothing and less layers

When To Contact a Healthcare Provider

Menopause is a natural part of aging. You'll still want to talk to a healthcare provider if your symptoms are uncomfortable or interfere with your daily activities. Let a healthcare provider know if you are spotting between periods or have vaginal bleeding after menopause.

Complications

Menopause increases the risk of several health conditions. It's important to talk to a healthcare provider about your risk of:

• Cardiovascular disease: Declining estrogen levels can negatively affect cholesterol levels, which is a significant risk factor for heart disease.
• Certain cancers: Aging, hormonal changes, and certain menopause treatments can increase the risk of breast and ovarian cancer.
• Osteoporosis: This condition affects the bones, weakening them and often leading to fractures. Declining estrogen levels cause people to lose bone density.

A Quick Review

Menopause starts at different times for different people. People who menstruate typically experience menopause between the ages of 45 and 55 years. Others start menopause as early as 35 or as late as 60. The menopausal transition can last anywhere from about seven to 14 years.

Talk to a healthcare provider if you think you may be going through perimenopause or have already hit menopause. They can answer any specific questions you may have and guide you on the next steps.