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What it is and when it arrives
The World Health Organization describes it as one point in a continuum of life stages for women, marking the end of their reproductive years. It is confirmed after 12 consecutive months without a period, with no other obvious cause.
Natural menopause generally occurs between 45 and 55 years of age worldwide. When it happens before 40 it is called premature menopause, and it should be investigated.
The most common symptoms
The WHO lists the following among the usual changes at this stage:
- Hot flushes and night sweats.
- Changes in the regularity and flow of periods, until they stop.
- Vaginal dryness, pain during sex and urinary incontinence.
- Difficulty sleeping or insomnia.
- Changes in mood, depression and anxiety.
The stages of the menopause
Perimenopause
The years leading up to it: periods change in amount and regularity, and hot flushes or insomnia may appear. Pregnancy is still possible.
What stage are you at?
Slide to your age. The WHO places natural menopause between the ages of 45 and 55.
Typical range
This is when natural menopause usually arrives. It is confirmed after 12 consecutive months without a period; until then, it is still advisable to use contraception.
Beyond the symptoms
The WHO notes that the menopause can also affect body composition, cardiovascular risk, the structures that support the pelvis and bone density. That is why regular check-ups matter, even if you feel well.
At our consulting rooms we carry out check-ups with a cervical smear and high-resolution gynaecological ultrasound to detect any condition early, and we advise on the genitourinary syndrome of menopause, which brings vaginal dryness, pain during sex and urinary discomfort.
What can be done
According to the WHO, there are both non-hormonal and hormonal interventions that help ease perimenopausal symptoms. If symptoms affect your health or wellbeing, it is worth talking to a specialist, who will consider your medical history, your preferences and your values to choose the treatment with you.
The same source reminds us of a practical point: during the perimenopause it is still advisable to use contraception, because pregnancy remains possible until 12 consecutive months without a period have passed.
Do your symptoms warrant an appointment?
Five questions covering the changes identified by the WHO.
Are hot flushes or night sweats bothering you?
This questionnaire offers guidance, not a diagnosis. If the pain is severe or something worries you, book an appointment or seek urgent care.
About the specialist
Dra. Concepción Carrascosa Romero
Treats the menopause, pelvic floor and contraception, and is an associate professor at the University of Murcia.
Frequently asked questions
At what age does the menopause arrive?
It usually arrives between 45 and 55. If it happens before 40, it is considered premature and worth discussing.
Do hot flushes last forever?
Every woman is different. What matters is that you do not have to put up with them if they affect you: there are hormonal and non-hormonal options.
Can I get pregnant during the perimenopause?
Yes, until 12 consecutive months without a period have passed, according to the WHO. That is why contraception is still recommended.
Sources consulted
- World Health Organization: Menopause · Checked on October 30, 2026
This information is educational and does not replace a medical consultation. If you have symptoms, book an appointment with a specialist.
