Science Explains What Happens During Menopause

While menopause marks the moment when ovulation and menstruation end, perimenopause begins years earlier, bringing with it a range of symptoms unique to each woman.

STORY AT-A-GLANCE

• Menopause is a natural life stage that occurs when the ovaries have reduced function; it’s associated with lower levels of estrogen and other hormones, and marks the period when fertility ends

• Perimenopause, or the menopausal transition, is the process leading up to menopause; perimenopause may begin around the ages of 45 to 55 and lasts…