What is menopause?

If you look up the word; menopause; in Webster’s Medical Dictionary it states: The point in time when 1 year has passed since the last menstrual period. I do not find this definition helpful. It confuses most and fixates on timing which is only relevant if you go through menopause early or if you have vaginal bleeding after menopause. Both of these conditions are not normal and you should consult with a health professional if either of these develop.

Menopause is the point in time at which your ovaries run out of eggs. All females are born with a supply of oocytes in the ovaries. They are at their maximum number at 5 months gestation. This is distinctly different to males who make fresh gametes in their testicles daily. The numbers of oocytes decline over time both through apoptosis (natural cell death) and ovulation.

Menopause occurs when no more oocytes remain for ovulation. Therefore the menstrual cycle stops.