This stage may occur in the age range of the mid-thirties to late fifties. The average age of menopause in American women is 51. One of the first signs that menopause may be approaching is irregular menstrual cycles. Ninety per cent of women experience menstrual changes. Sleep patterns are often affected by the occurrence of hot flashes which can lead to patterns of fatigue.
Bone loss can develop due to a decrease in estrogen levels, increasing the risk for osteoporosis.
Blood fat metabolism changes may occur as well with resulting high cholesterol and triglyceride levels due to lower thresholds of estrogen. Due to hormonal changes, interest in sexual activity also declines, but pregnancy is still possible as ovulation may still occur. Woman who seek medical attention for the symptoms of menopause can be treated by a variety of methods. Hormone replacement therapy replaces estrogen lost through the changes of menopause. Regular exercise improves sleep, aides in weight control, and helps mobilize calcium into the bone.