What is menopause?

Menopause is defined as the natural and permanent cessation of menstruation, marking the end of a woman’s reproductive years. This biological process typically occurs in women between the ages of 45 and 55, although it can vary significantly. It is characterized by a decline in the production of hormones such as estrogen and progesterone, leading to the end of menstrual cycles.

This transition period can have a range of symptoms, including hot flashes, night sweats, and changes in mood, but ultimately signifies a significant and permanent change in a woman's health and reproductive status. Understanding menopause is important for recognizing its impact on women's health and the associated changes that may be experienced during this time.

The other options either misrepresent menopause as a temporary state or incorrectly associate it with different life stages, illustrating the necessity of recognizing menopause as a definitive phase in a woman's life cycle rather than a temporary or heightened state of fertility.