Menopause occurs when you have not had a period for one year. Your body may begin to prepare for this as early as your thirties, or as late as your 50's. Menopause is not a disease or condition. It is simply nature taking its course. It begins with perimenopause, which can be a few years before your last period, on through the year after your period stops. Once the year is complete without periods, you have been "through menopause." Then the rest of your life is considered "postmenopause."

As the "change of life" begins, the ovaries stop making estrogen. The estrogen levels then drop in your body and your period begins to stop. Although the average menopausal age is 51, you may start to notice signs years before. There are signs of an upcoming menopause:

• Changes in your menstrual cycle such as longer or shorter periods.  They can also be lighter or heavier.
• Many women going through menopause experience hot flashes. These occur due to the changes in your estrogen hormone levels. Hot flashes can last from a few seconds to ten minutes. You will feel an overwhelming heat and may become flushed and even blotchy. Be prepared for sweat during the hot flash and possibly chills afterwards. Some women wake up in the middle of the night with sweat-soaked sheets.
• Unfortunately, as your estrogen levels decrease, your genital area can become dryer and thinner. This may make sexual intercourse painful. Talk to your doctor about personal lubricants if you experience discomfort or pain. If you experience general discomfort during the day, your doctor can prescribe a long lasting personal lubricant.
• Vaginal thinning can lead to urine leakage as well as infection. You may find that sneezing, jogging, coughing or laughing may cause you to leak.
• Mood changes are common during menopause. You may become depressed or feel stress due to your changing hormone levels. This can also be occurring because you are beginning to see results of your age, yet you may also find a new sense of freedom with the elimination of your periods.

Once you have reached postmenopause, there are a few things you should keep in mind about changes in your body. Estrogen helps to control bone loss. Your body has less estrogen, so be sure you are getting enough calcium in your diet. Talk to your doctor about ways you can prevent osteoporosis.

Women are at greater risk for heart disease after menopause. Have a regular physical and get your cholesterol levels checked with each one. Exercise on a regular basis and eat healthy for a healthy you! Remember, menopause does not have to be the end of your life but can be a new and exciting beginning.