Menopause is a natural biological process that marks the end of a woman's reproductive years. It is characterized by the permanent cessation of menstrual periods, and is usually accompanied by a decline in the production of estrogen and progesterone, the two hormones that regulate the menstrual cycle. The average age for menopause is 51, but it can occur as early as the 30s or as late as the 60s. During the years leading up to menopause, known as perimenopause, a woman's body gradually produces less estrogen and progesterone. This can cause a variety of symptoms, including hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, and mood swings. These symptoms can be severe and disruptive to daily life for some women, while others may experience little to no symptoms at all. Once a woman has gone 12 months without a menstrual period, she is considered to be in menopause. At this point, the ovaries have stopped releasing eggs and the levels of estrogen and progesterone in the body are sign