Menopause occurs when a woman’s menstrual cycle comes to a permanent end. It typically occurs anywhere from the mid-40s to the mid-50s, though this is highly variable. Age is the primary cause of menopause, though it can also occur as the result of traumatic injury to the reproductive organs or, rarely, due to an underlying psychological condition. Signs of menopause include mood swings, the cessation of normal monthly menstrual blood flow, night sweats, elevated heart rate and hot flashes. Once menopause occurs, it cannot be reversed. Hormonal treatments may be issued to help alleviate the discomfort of the secondary symptoms.
