Updated January 2025
During the time leading up to menopause, women will experience changes in their menstrual cycles and other symptoms due to the body’s decline in estrogen hormone production. This menopause transition (or perimenopause) typically occurs in the 40s and 50s, and usually lasts 4-8 years on average, but can be longer. The age of onset and duration of the menopause transition is affected by biological, medical, sociocultural, and lifestyle factors. For example, menopause may occur due to natural ovarian aging or a medical procedure that damages the ovaries, such as chemotherapy or a hysterectomy.
This fact sheet is from the SWHR Women’s Health Equity Initiative, which highlights data on women’s health in the United States and aims to provide solutions to improve health equity across diseases, conditions, and life stages.
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