Menopause (World Health Organization fact sheet)

Tier 1: Established: peer-reviewed research or government health authority
Publisher: World Health Organization · Published: October 17, 2022 · Accessed: August 10, 2026

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Claims this source supports

• Most women experience menopause between the ages of 45 and 55 years as a natural part of biological ageing.
• Perimenopause refers to the period from when signs of the menopausal transition are first observed until one year after the final menstrual period; it can last several years.
• Perimenopause can affect physical, emotional, mental and social well-being.
• Symptoms associated with menopause include hot flushes and night sweats, changes in the menstrual cycle, vaginal dryness, difficulty sleeping/insomnia, and changes in mood, depression and anxiety.
• The hormonal changes associated with menopause can affect physical, emotional, mental and social well-being; symptoms vary substantially from person to person and can be severe enough to affect daily activities and quality of life.
• A variety of non-hormonal and hormonal interventions can help alleviate perimenopausal symptoms.