Menopause & HRT

A woman reaches menopause when she has not had a period for one year. But it is the period leading up to this (called perimenopause) that gets the most attention. Perimenopause may be marked by irregular and absent menstrual periods, mood swings, hot flashes, insomnia and vaginal dryness. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may ease menopause symptoms. Menopause before age 40 is considered early menopause (the average menopausal age is 51).