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Menopause is a normal time in life when your menstrual period slows down and eventually ends. Our providers can help you figure out if menopause has begun and can help manage symptoms that may occur during this time.

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What is menopause?

For people born with a uterus and ovaries, menopause is a natural and normal process that usually happens between ages 45 and 55. The ovaries stop making estrogen and the making of other reproductive hormones, like progesterone, also slows down. Without these hormones, menstruation stops, as well as the ability to get pregnant.

Menopause can be a welcome relief, as it means no longer worrying about unplanned pregnancy or the need for contraception. This can be sexually liberating! Just remember to continue regular STI screenings every time you have a new partner.

What is perimenopause?

Perimenopause is the period leading up to menopause when symptoms start to occur. It usually starts around age 45 but can start earlier. During this time menstrual cycles become less predictable.   Even though fertility is declining, it’s still possible to get pregnant. This stage can last anywhere from a few months to up to 10 years.

How Planned Parenthood can provide support during menopause

Hormone therapy replaces the hormones estrogen and progesterone that your body stops making during menopause. These medicines can help with symptoms and have added health benefits for some people.

Hormone therapy can help with:

  • Reducing hot flashes
  • Vaginal dryness
  • Sleep problems
  • Urinary tract infections and sudden urges to pee
  • Arthritis pain
  • Lowering your risk of colon cancer and diabetes
Learn More about Menopause

Planned Parenthood delivers vital reproductive health care, sex education, and information to millions of people worldwide. Planned Parenthood Federation of America, Inc. is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit under EIN 13-1644147. Donations are tax-deductible to the fullest extent allowable under the law. Planned Parenthood Great Northwest, Hawai’i, Alaska, Indiana, Kentucky complies with applicable Federal civil rights laws and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, age, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, or sex. Planned Parenthood Great Northwest, Hawai’i, Alaska, Indiana, Kentucky does not exclude people or treat them differently because of race, color, national origin, age, disability, gender identity, sexual orientation, or sex.

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