Menopause is a natural stage of life when a woman's ovaries stop producing eggs and hormone levels (estrogen and progesterone) decline significantly. It is diagnosed after 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period. The transition leading up to menopause is called perimenopause, which can last several years. Perimenopause affects women differently, but can include irregular periods, irregular hormone fluctuations, anxiety, irritability, and insomnia.

Who Does Menopause Affect?

• Most women experience menopause between ages 45 and 56, with the average age being about 51.

• Perimenopause (the transition phase) can begin in the mid 30-40s and last 4–8 years.

• Premature menopause (before age 40) can occur due to genetics, surgery, or medical treatments.

• Women spend roughly 40% of their lives in the postmenopausal stage.

Common Menopause Symptoms

• Hot flashes and night sweats (experienced by more than half of women)

• Vaginal dryness, burning, or discomfort during intimacy

• Sleep disturbances (insomnia)

• Mood changes, including irritability, anxiety, or low mood

• Difficulty concentrating or "brain fog"

• Urinary urgency or recurrent urinary tract infections

• Joint and muscle aches

• Weight changes and shifts in body fat distribution

• Decreased sex drive

These symptoms can range from mild to severe and can last 7 years or longer if not treated.

Andropause — sometimes called "male menopause" or late-onset hypogonadism — refers to a gradual decline in testosterone that men can experience as they age. Unlike menopause, andropause is not a sudden event. Testosterone levels decrease slowly, about 1–2% per year starting in the 30s.

Who Does Andropause Affect?

• Testosterone decline begins gradually in the 30s, and symptoms become more noticeable.

• Men with high stress, obesity, type 2 diabetes, or other chronic conditions are at higher risk.

Common Andropause Symptoms

• Loss of muscle mass and strength

• Depressed mood or irritability

• Fatigue and low energy

• Difficulty concentrating

• Lack of motivation

• Increased body fat, especially around the midsection

• Erectile difficulties

• Decreased sex drive (libido)

• Fewer or absent morning erections

• Decreased bone density

• Sleep disturbances