The previous page explains the term perimenopause, however there are a number of terms that are used for the entire transition period, which can take up to ten years. Oh, boy. So, here are some quick summaries of the terms you may hear thrown about by the medical profession:
Premenopause – (comes before perimenopause) This term basically refers to the period a few years before the onset of menopause symptoms. It could also be used for a woman in her 20s – technically.
Premature menopause – Someone who is menopausal before age 40, may be considered as having premature menopause. Depending on where you live in the world the reference point (median age) may be slightly different.
Induced menopause – This is a term used when someone has had surgery to remove both ovaries, which would cause the cessation of periods (whether or not there has been a hysterectomy).
Natural menopause – You can probably guess this one. This is when there has been no menstrual period for 12 consecutive months, from normal (not outside) causes.
Post-menopause – Yes, you know this one too – however you may not know that it refers to all women after menopause, whether it was natural or induced.
