Ladies, at some point in our lives, every one of us will experience a significant biological transition that can affect our physical health, mental wellbeing, and overall quality of life. What happens during menopause is a natural process in every woman’s life, yet it is a topic often shrouded in silence and misconception. Today, we’re going to change that conversation.

Are you, or someone you know, going through changes you don’t quite understand? You’re not alone.

Hi there! I’m Lora Ulrich,  Certified Holistic Nutritionist, Menopause & Metabolism Specialist, and Executive Wellness Coach. Every day, I get to experience the life-changing power of women embracing new habits, routines and mindsets and the incredible impact this has on their bodies, their moods and their lives. I’m here to help you understand and navigate this crucial life journey.

Importance of Understanding Menopause in Women’s Health

Understanding menopause is key to managing the changes it brings. By learning about the symptoms, stages, and long-term health implications, you can make informed decisions about your well-being. Being aware of how to navigate this phase can prevent complications like osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease, helping women lead healthier, happier lives post-menopause.

Defining menopause and its stages

Menopause officially begins 12 months after the last menstrual period. The average age is 51, but can occur between 45-55. According to WebMD, it marks the end of reproductive years . Ovaries significantly reduce production of estrogen and progesterone. Menopause is the one day that a person stops having their period for good. If it’s not caused by medical treatments or surgery, it happens slowly in three stages: perimenopause, menopause, and post-menopause. 

What is Perimenopause?

Perimenopause is the period of time when your ovaries produce less estrogen and your body transitions to menopause. It can begin as early as your mid 30’s and can last up to 10 years and involves various changes in a person’s hormone levels. During this time, you might experience irregular periods, hot flashes, mood swings, and other symptoms as your body adjusts. Perimenopause typically lasts until menopause, which is when periods stop completely.

What happens after menopause?

Postmenopause is the time after menopause. It begins one year after your last menstrual period. Ladies, this lasts for the rest of our lives. Our hormone levels, particularly estrogen, stabilize at lower levels, which can lead to a reduction in menopausal symptoms for some women, while others may still continue to experience some symptoms though these often become less severe over time. 

Menopause is a natural phase in every woman’s life, and no two experiences are exactly alike. By understanding each stage—from perimenopause to postmenopause—you can make more informed choices about your health and well-being. When you know what to expect, you can take control of your symptoms and navigate this transition with more ease and confidence.

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Key Questions about what happens during Menopause