Women are usually in their late 40s or early 50s when the menopause transition starts. However, an earlier menopause can be the result of surgery, cancer treatment, or family genetics.

Often, it is observed that women reach menopause around the same age as their mothers. So genes tend to play a role.

An active lifestyle, ideal weight and a healthy BMI (body mass index) tend to have a later menopause.Smokers may reach menopause about 2 years earlier than non-smokers.

Multiple factors affect the menopause transition in a woman's body: genes, lifestyle, mental and emotional stress, nutrition etc Each of us, therefore, is different and unique.

Women are said to be in menopause when they have not had their period for 12 consecutive months. Additionally menopause is often accompanied by a range of symptoms commonly, such as hot flashes, sleeplessness, mood swings, dryness etc.

Some common physical symptoms are

Hot flashes and night sweats

Insomnia

Fatigue

Vaginal changes (dryness)

Urinary incontinence

Weight gain around the abdomen

Dry skin and hair

Some common mental symptoms are

Sudden onset of emotions/ tears

Mood swings and depression

Memory and concentration decreases

Decreased sex drive

From the last menstrual period, it’s usually four to five years. But this varies from woman to woman.