When does menopause happen?

Menopause happens when you go one full year without your period. When you reach menopause, your ovaries no longer release eggs (ovulate), ending your ability to get pregnant.

Though it feels like menopause happens suddenly, this life transition occurs in stages:

Perimenopause

Perimenopause is the transitional stage leading up to menopause. During this stage, your hormone levels fluctuate, causing an irregular menstrual cycle and many of the symptoms associated with menopause — hot flashes, mood changes, and fatigue.

This stage of menopause can last several years.

Menopause

When you stop menstruating, you’re in menopause.

Postmenopause

When your period stops, you enter the postmenopause stage of life. At this stage, you should experience improvements in your menopause symptoms.

What type of symptoms can I expect during menopause?

Menopause affects everyone differently. For some, menopause causes mild symptoms that they barely notice. For others, the symptoms are so severe it disrupts daily life.

Some of the symptoms and health issues you may experience during perimenopause and menopause include:

  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Fatigue
  • Mood changes
  • Hot flashes
  • Night sweats
  • Weight gain
  • Vaginal dryness
  • Pain during intercourse
  • Low libido

All of the symptoms that occur during menopause are due to changes in hormone levels.

What integrated therapies benefit menopause?

The team at Zen Attitude Acupuncture takes a whole-person approach to health and healing. Before making any therapy recommendations, they spend time getting to know you so they can create a plan that best supports you.

Some of the integrated therapies that may benefit menopause include:

  • Acupuncture
  • Craniosacral therapy
  • Vitamin injections
  • Homeopathic injections
  • Nutritional counseling
  • Life coaching

The team collaborates with you, providing services that support your health, and giving you the tools necessary to improve it.

How does acupuncture help menopause?

Acupuncture relieves many of the symptoms you experience with menopause. The ancient therapy uses thin needles to rebalance the flow of your body’s life force, or energy.

The needles activate your nervous system, triggering the release of chemicals that ease pain, boost mood, and give you a general sense of calm. You may find acupuncture sessions for menopause ease your hot flashes, stabilize your mood, and improve your sleep.

Acupuncture is one of the primary treatments at Zen Attitude Acupuncture.

Menopause is a normal part of life, but not one you need to suffer through. Call Zen Attitude Acupuncture today or book an appointment online for holistic menopause care.

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.