How long does menopause last? By one measure, the rest of your life
Women who've had menopausal symptoms for years—such as night sweats, mood changes and new aches and pains—might be wondering when they will ever end.
Menopause technically lasts for just one day—12 months after a woman's final menstrual period. However, the symptoms often endure much longer. Many women experience menopausal symptoms for an average of seven years, though the duration varies widely. Symptoms can begin appearing in a woman's early 40s, or they might start in her 30s and last for years.
Other women continue to feel the effects long after their last period. This extended period is often referred to as postmenopause, which lasts a woman's entire remaining life.
Low estrogen levels after menopause increase the risk of serious long-term health issues like dementia, osteoporosis, and heart disease. These risks are especially elevated in women who experience premature or early menopause. Healthy lifestyle choices, including good nutrition, adequate sleep, regular exercise, and strength training, can help mitigate these long-lasting risks.
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