What is Menopause?
Understanding Menopause
Menopause is a natural biological process that affects all women. Research indicates that approximately 13 million women in the UK are currently experiencing menopause, with studies suggesting that around 70% report their symptoms having a moderate to severe impact on their quality of life, career, and wellbeing.
When Menopause Occurs
Menopause typically occurs when a woman's ovaries stop producing eggs and hormone levels decline. While the average age for menopause in Western populations is 51-54 years, and 45-49 years in Asian populations, the timing can vary significantly between individuals.
Some women may experience symptoms in their 30s or 40s (early menopause), while others may not experience significant changes until their 50s. The variability in timing and symptom severity can affect women differently, potentially impacting their emotional wellbeing and daily functioning.
Menopause may have implications for both mental and physical health, and women experiencing concerning symptoms should consult with their healthcare provider for appropriate guidance and support.
The Biological Process
To understand menopause, it's helpful to understand the menstrual cycle and reproductive biology:
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Women are born with all their eggs (oocytes) already present in their ovaries
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From puberty onwards, eggs are gradually released until the supply is depleted
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During reproductive years, eggs develop within structures called follicles on the ovary surface
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Under normal circumstances, follicles develop during each menstrual cycle, forming follicular cysts that release mature eggs during ovulation
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Follicles are responsible for producing the hormones oestrogen and progesterone
Hormonal Changes
When ovarian egg production ceases, oestrogen and progesterone levels decline significantly.
This process involves several key hormones:
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Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH): Produced by the pituitary gland, FSH stimulates follicle growth, typically from day 1 to approximately day 12 of the menstrual cycle
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Luteinising Hormone (LH): Encourages follicles to produce oestrogen and triggers ovulation
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Progesterone: Production increases in the latter part of the menstrual cycle under LH influence
Note: Cycle timing may vary between individuals depending on individual cycle length and other factors.
