Menopause is not a disease or condition it simply marks a period of time in a woman's life when she has gone 12 months without a menstrual period. It reflects the end of menstruation, ovulation, and represents a time when a women is no longer capable of reproduction. The average age of menopause is 51 years.

The transitional period to menopause, called perimenopause lasts about 4 years for most women, but can take up to 10. Menopausal symptoms result due to changing levels of hormones, estrogen and progesterone. Perimenopause typically starts with menstrual irregularity which can begin with shortened intervals between periods that eventually lengthen before ceasing. Although many symptoms are commonly associated with perimenopause the only normal symptom is a change in menstrual cycle and flow.

• Diet/Lifestyle - removing aggravating foods, increase exercise (especially weight baring)

• Supplements and vitamins specific to your needs

• Acupuncture

• Relieve hot flashes and night sweats

• Better sleep

• Ease vaginal dryness

• Make sex less painful

• Regulate mood

• Prevent osteoporosis