Adults-Older People

Menopause

All women go through the menopause. This is the time when menstruation comes to an end, when the ovaries cease functioning. They produce no more eggs or oestrogen, and fertility ends.

Some women pass through this natural process without any undue difficulties.
Others can experience a long and painful struggle which leaves them exhausted and depressed. The menopause tends to develop in the age range 45 to 55.

Where a woman has had her ovaries removed surgically or undergoes radiation or chemotherapy, menopausal symptoms can be induced.
There are a number of symptoms which may nor may not be experienced in the lead up to, and following the menopause.

These can include;

  • Premenstrual tension may be quite severe or there may be none at all.
  • Onset and duration of the period can change on each occasion. Periods may be early or late, may last fewer days than before or more.
  • An inconsistent period may occur - alternating between heavy discharge on one occasion and light on another.
  • Hot flushes may be experienced lasting from seconds to minutes. They may be felt as a minor annoyance or may be severe enough to interfere with normal activity.


General aches, fatigue, depression, insomnia, irritability and anxiety are symptoms which have also been reported in association with the menopause. In the longer term, the reduction in oestrogen production removes the protection which women enjoyed against the development of heart disease. By the age of 65, they are reported to be on a par with men with regard to risk. Reduced oestrogen production can also lead to a deterioration in bone mass, leading to the development in later years of osteoporosis - “weak” bones.
The psychological response to the end of the menopause can also vary. Some women, freed from the fear of pregnancy, the tribulations of the monthly periods, and perhaps the continuous use of contraception, feel liberated and may even experience a flush of sensuality and interest in sexual adventure. Others lose any interest in continuing sexual activity, whether the passage through the menopause was difficult or relatively easy. Vaginal dryness accompanying the menopause can be off-putting too, especially if sexual activity results in pain.

Difficulties with arousal are discussed more fully at the Sexual Dysfunction section of this web site.