Menopause is defined as the permanent cessation of menstruation due to loss of ovarian follicular function. It is characterised by hypoestrogenism and increased gonadotropins, resulting in systemic symptoms.
Perimenopause is the time from onset of cycle irregularity to 12 months after the final period.
In Australia:
the average age of menopause is 51.5 years (range is 45 to 55 years)
up to 10% experience early menopause (<45 years)
about 1% experience premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) (before age 40)
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