menopause

men·o·pause

noun \ˈme-nə-ˌpȯz, ˈmē-\

Definition of MENOPAUSE

1

: the natural cessation of menstruation that usually occurs between the ages of 45 and 55; also : the period during which such cessation occurs —called also climacteric — compare perimenopause

2

: cessation of menstruation from other than natural causes

— men·o·paus·al \ˌme-nə-ˈpȯ-zəl, ˌmē-\ adjective

Origin of MENOPAUSE

French ménopause, from méno- men- + pause stop, pause

First Known Use: 1872

meno·pause

noun \ˈmen-ə-ˌpȯz, ˈmēn-\   (Medical Dictionary)

Medical Definition of MENOPAUSE

1

a (1) : the natural cessation of menstruation occurring usually between the ages of 45 and 55 with a mean in Western cultures of approximately 51 (2) : the physiological period in the life of a woman in which such cessation and the accompanying regression of ovarian function occurs—called also climacteric; compare perimenopause b : cessation of menstruation from other than natural causes (as from surgical removal of the ovaries)

2

: andropause

—meno·paus·al \ˌmen-ə-ˈpȯ-zəl, ˌmēn-\ (audio pronunciation) (audio pronunciation) adjective

menopause

noun    (Concise Encyclopedia)

Final cessation of menstruation, ending female fertility. It usually begins between ages 45 and 55. A gradual decline in function of the ovaries reduces estrogen production. Ovulation becomes irregular and gradually ceases. The length of the menstrual cycle and periods may vary; flow may lessen or increase. Adjustment of the endocrine system to estrogen reduction causes hot flashes, often at night, with a warm sensation, flushing, and sweating; other symptoms, such as irritability and headaches, may be related more to reactions to aging. Removal or destruction of the ovaries to treat disease causes artificial menopause, with similar but more sudden effects. Changes in hormone balance usually cause no physical or mental disturbances. However, the protective effect of estrogen against osteoporosis and atherosclerosis is lost, and risks of fracture and coronary heart disease increase.

The term male menopause is sometimes used to describe an equivalent aging-related decline in testicular function that results in testosterone deficiency in men. This process is alternatively referred to as late-onset hypogonadism or andropause.