when does menopause start? - Menopause Message Board

kackle · 09-14-2006, 07:32 PM

At what age does menopause usially start? and how long is the whole proccess. I heard it could last some 20 years.

Peace

Jen

Alabasterlyn · 09-15-2006, 01:13 AM

My doctor told me it can start any time after the age of 45, but you hear of lots of women who start theirs earlier. Add to that the fact that you can be in peri menopause for 10yrs beforehand and you could be mid 30's when it all starts to change. No idea how long it goes on for, mine has lasted getting on for 4yrs now

MommaBee · 09-15-2006, 01:56 AM

Actually, menopause has started only after you have not had a period for 12 months. Perimenopause is the transition time, between when your ovaries start to stop their production of hormones. It is during this time that most women have troubles. It can last from 5 years to 13 years. Most women find it difficult and scary, because of all the changes that occur. Irregular bleeding is a big one. You can have longer heavier, lighter, shorter, or skip periods. Moodiness, loss of libido, depression, memory loss or hard time concentrating, itchy, crawly skin, weight gain, and the list goes on.
Many women, when first experiencing changes to their cycle, take HRT. Though not for along time.
It is best to get yourself educated on what to expect, so that you can understand what is happening. There are many great sites out there with good information. See your doctor and work with him on finding what will work for you, to get you to the other side.
I am 50 and have been in peri for 11 years now. I can see the light at the end of the tunnel.
Take care!

td9997 · 09-15-2006, 07:31 PM

Im gonna be 50 in 2 weeks, Ive had my tubes tied since I was 21, after 2 pregnancies.
I get hot flashes daily, some bad, some not so bad, usually 3 days out of the month are sweat ridden. My husband had ice in his hair, in the bed last winter, we have a window at the head board, I just havta keep open year round****. [true story].

Im not upset about the way my cycle is going [knocking on wood] I only had 2 periods this year I was like clockwork.
Ive read too if youve missed 12 consecutive cycles your in full blown Menipause.

reminds me of puberty without the Wonder of it All!
td9997