What are the three basic stages of menopause?

The three basic stages of menopause are perimenopause, menopause, and post-menopause.

Perimenopause refers to the transitional phase leading up to menopause, characterized by hormonal fluctuations and various symptoms such as irregular menstrual cycles, hot flashes, and mood changes. This stage can begin several years prior to the actual cessation of menstruation and can last for months or even years.

Menopause itself is defined as the point in time when a woman has not had a menstrual period for 12 consecutive months. This marks the end of reproductive fertility and is primarily identified by a significant decrease in the production of hormones such as estrogen.

Post-menopause is the stage that follows menopause, during which a woman has completed the transition and experiences a new hormonal balance. Symptoms stemming from hormonal changes may continue into post-menopause, but with time, many of these symptoms often lessen or resolve.

Understanding these stages is crucial as they help women navigate the changes that occur during this significant life transition, impacting both physical health and emotional well-being. The other options do not accurately represent the stages related to menopause, focusing instead on unrelated concepts or phases that do not encompass the complete menopausal experience.