Menopause is a term used to describe the permanent cessation of ovarian function which results in the cessation of ova release, uterine lining creation, and subsequent uterine lining shedding (a.k.a. menses). Menopause typically (but not always) occurs in women during their late 40s or early 50s, and signals the end of the fertile phase of a woman's life.

The transition from reproductive to non-reproductive is the result of a major reduction in female hormonal production by the ovaries. This transition is normally not sudden or abrupt, tends to occur over a period of years, and is a natural consequence of aging. However, for some of women, the accompanying signs and effects that can occur during the menopause transition years can significantly disrupt their daily activities and their sense of well-being. In addition, women who have some sort of functional disorder affecting the reproductive system (i.e. endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome, cancer of the reproductive organs) can go into menopause at a younger age than the normal timeframe; the functional disorders often significantly speed up the menopausal process and create more significant health problems, both physical and emotional, for the affected woman.