The menopause occurs when the ovaries stop producing eggs and periods stop. It is diagnosed as having occurred when a woman hasn’t had a period for 12 months or longer. The average age of menopause in the UK is 51 years with a normal age range of 45-55 years.
An early menopause is when the menopause occurs between ages 40-45 years and Premature Ovarian Insufficiency (POI) is diagnosed if menopause occurs in a woman aged < 40 years. In the UK population approximately 1 in 100 women aged < 40 years and 1 in 1000 women aged < 30 years have POI. POI carries an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis. For this reason it is vital that women who have POI receive replacement hormones to secure their long term cardiovascular and bone health.
All women, that live long enough, will experience the menopause. For most women this is a natural part of ageing but for some the menopause will be precipitated by surgery, chemotherapy or radiotherapy. As a result of the ovaries failing, levels of estrogen, progesterone and testosterone fall. Some women experience no symptoms but many do and in some women these are severe and impact on their quality of life, relationships and employment.
Symptoms can begin several years before the menopause (the perimenopause) and persist after the menopause. The average duration of symptoms is 7 years but for some women these symptoms persist for decades. Furthermore, post menopausal symptoms of vaginal dryness, vaginal itch, painful intercourse and urinary frequency, if left untreated, can persist for life.
Last updated: May 2026
