Menopause is a universal milestone in the life cycle of women and every woman’s experience of this phase of life is unique and influenced by a variety of factors. The transition from normal ovarian function to the near-complete loss of estrogen production comes with a range of psychological, endocrinological, and physical changes which occur over years.,^2,3 Though some women go through the menopausal transition asymptomatic or with few symptoms, over 85% experience the effects of estrogen fluctuation and eventual deficiency – sweating, hot flashes, insomnia, discomfort, and vaginal dryness. These symptoms can range from mild to moderate discomfort to symptoms that are severe and disabling and are all influenced by psychological, ethnic, and socio-cultural factors.^2,3

Menopause – the complete cessation of menses for 12 months – usually occurs at about 51 years of age though the age can range between 45 to 55 years.⁴ Based on increasing life expectancy, most women will live a good portion of their lives post-menopause.⁵ Yet many women have limited awareness of the potential implications of this transition and many primary care physicians struggle with how to manage this time in their patients’ lives.⁶