When Does Menopause Happen?

Menopause officially begins when you’ve gone 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period. At this stage, your ovaries stop releasing eggs (ovulating), marking the end of your reproductive years.

Although menopause may feel sudden, it’s actually a gradual transition that occurs in three stages:

1. Perimenopause

Perimenopause is the transitional phase leading up to menopause. Hormone levels fluctuate, causing irregular periods and common menopause symptoms such as hot flashes, mood swings, fatigue, and sleep issues. This stage can last several years before full menopause begins.

2. Menopause

You’ve officially reached menopause when your menstrual periods stop completely for one full year. This is a natural biological milestone that every woman experiences differently.

3. Postmenopause

After menopause, you enter the postmenopausal stage, when symptoms may gradually ease. However, hormone changes can continue to affect bone, heart, and emotional health — making ongoing support and self-care essential.

What Are Common Menopause Symptoms?

Menopause affects everyone uniquely. Some experience mild discomfort, while others find symptoms interfere with daily life.
Common perimenopause and menopause symptoms include:

  • Hot flashes and night sweats
  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Fatigue or low energy
  • Mood swings and irritability
  • Weight gain or metabolism changes
  • Vaginal dryness and pain during intercourse
  • Low libido
  • Anxiety or brain fog

These symptoms are primarily caused by hormonal fluctuations — particularly a decline in estrogen and progesterone.

Holistic & Integrated Therapies for Menopause Relief

At Zen Attitude Acupuncture, we believe in a whole-person approach to menopause care. Our experienced team takes time to understand your unique needs and tailors a treatment plan that supports your mind, body, and spirit.

We offer integrative therapies that help balance hormones, ease symptoms, and restore well-being, including:

  • Acupuncture – Balances energy flow and relieves hot flashes, insomnia, and mood changes.
  • Craniosacral Therapy – Promotes relaxation and helps the nervous system adapt to hormonal shifts.
  • Vitamin & Homeopathic Injections – Boost energy, mood, and immune support naturally.
  • Nutritional Counseling – Addresses diet and lifestyle to support hormone health.
  • Life Coaching – Helps navigate emotional changes and maintain balance during this life stage.

Our goal is to empower you with tools and treatments that help you feel grounded, balanced, and energized throughout your menopause journey.

How Acupuncture Helps With Menopause Symptoms

Acupuncture is one of the most effective natural therapies for menopause relief. By stimulating specific points on the body with fine needles, acupuncture helps rebalance your body’s energy (Qi) and activates your nervous system. This process releases natural chemicals that:

  • Reduce hot flashes and night sweats
  • Improve sleep quality
  • Lift mood and ease anxiety
  • Enhance circulation and energy
  • Restore a sense of calm and well-being

At Zen Attitude Acupuncture, we specialize in using acupuncture to support women through perimenopause, menopause, and beyond — helping you transition with ease and vitality.

Holistic Menopause Care in Seattle

Menopause is a natural phase of life — but it doesn’t have to mean discomfort. At Zen Attitude Acupuncture, our compassionate team provides personalized, holistic menopause treatments designed to restore balance and help you thrive.

📞 Call 206.466.2933 or book your appointment online to start your journey toward feeling your best.

Reduces hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings
Supports hormonal balance and emotional well-being
Improves sleep, energy levels, and libido
Promotes bone, heart, and cognitive health

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do menopause symptoms last?

Symptoms can begin during perimenopause and last several years. With the right treatment, many women find significant relief and improved quality of life.

Are natural treatments effective?

Yes, many women find relief with natural options like herbal supplements, acupuncture, and dietary changes that support hormone balance.

When should I seek treatment for menopause symptoms?

If symptoms interfere with daily life, sleep, relationships, or emotional health, it’s a good time to explore treatment options with a provider.