Health encyclopaedia

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Menopause

The menopause, also known as the ‘change of life’ is marked by the ending of menstruation. The menopause occurs at an average age of about 50, but the usual range is from 47 to 52. Occurrences outside this range are quite common. Sometimes the menopause is delayed to 55 or later; sometimes it may occur at 40 or earlier. A premature menopause can have one of many causes, and also occurs if for any reason the ovaries have to be removed surgically (perhaps as part of a total hysterectomy).

The menopause involves the end of egg production (ovulation) by the ovaries. Menstrual cycles can occur without ovulation taking place as the menopause approaches. For this reason, pregnancy is very rare after 50. A woman’s periods do not usually stop suddenly, although sometimes this does happen. As a general rule, they first become more scanty, then the odd period is missed, then they stop.

The main effect of the menopause is a greatly reduced production of the hormone oestrogen.

Some menopausal women suffer psychologically from the awareness that they have come to the end of reproductive life. Some view the menopause as a significant stage in ageing.

• Symptoms
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• Macular degenerationMagnesium testMalariaMale contraceptive pillMalignant melanomaMalnutritionMarfan syndromeMastectomyMastitisMénière’s diseaseMeaslesMeningitisMenopauseMental healthMental health servicesMental health specialist servicesMicroalbumin testMigraineMiscarriageMMRMobile phone safetyMolesMolluscum contagiosumMorning sicknessMotor neurone diseaseMouth ulcerMRI scanMRSAMucositisMultiple myelomaMultiple sclerosisMumpsMunchausen’s syndromeMuscular dystrophyMyasthenia gravis

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