Stages of menopause

Most women will start perimenopause when they're around 45. It can last up to 10 years. In Australia, the average age for menopause is 51. Menopause is when you haven't had a monthly period for 12 months.

If your period stops before you're 45 it's known as early menopause. If your period stops before age 40 it's known as premature ovarian insufficiency (POI).

You can have menopause symptoms during perimenopause and for a few years after your period stops.

See your GP if you get any bleeding during your post menopause years.

Premature and early menopause

Lean about the signs, symptoms and possible causes of early menopause and premature ovarian insufficiency (POI).

Managing menopause symptoms

Learn about common menopause symptoms and ways to manage or treat them.

Information for First Nations women

Jean Hailes has information on menopause to support First Nations women.

Information in other languages

The Australian Menopause Society has videos in other languages about how menopause will affect your health and treatment options.

Jean Hailes has women’s health fact sheets in other languages and translated videos.