Assignment 8
Stages of Menopause

Menopause is divided into three basic stages: perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause.

 

During this time, the ovaries begin to atrophy which causes a decline in the production of the hormones that stimulate the menstrual cycle; estrogen and progesterone.

 

Additionally, as females age there is a natural decline in the number of eggs in the ovaries.  As a result, fertility declines.

 

The transition from perimenopause to menopause to post-menopause usually lasts seven years or longer.