Menopause begins naturally for women in their 40’s or 50’s. According to the Office on Women’s Health, the average age for menopause is 52 in the United States. But menopause can begin earlier than naturally expected, which is the case for only 5% of females. Menopause may occur earlier if a woman smokes or does not have children. In addition, females often experience menopause around the same age as their birth mother.