Menopause is a natural part of aging, so treatment or medication may not be required unless the patient wishes to treat the symptoms of menopause. Menopause may be caused by the normal changes in a woman's hormonal system.

As women grow older, they may ovulate less often, which may cause hormone levels to fluctuate. Levels of estrogen and progesterone may drop so much that the menstrual cycle stops. Certain factors such as undergoing chemotherapy or radiation therapy or the removal of the ovaries may cause early menopause in some women.

Women may experience various changes as menopause is reached. Women may experience irregular periods. Light or heavy periods may be present or women may skip a period altogether. Other symptoms may include hot flashes, insomnia, mood swings, depression, irritability, headaches, heart palpitations, vaginal dryness and problems focusing and thinking.

Some women may experience mild symptoms, while others may experience severe symptoms. Over time, hormone levels balance and symptoms may decrease or disappear.

A doctor may be able to determine if a woman has entered menopause based solely on symptoms, menstrual cycle and period frequency. A health care professional may wish to run tests to rule out other causes of certain symptoms women may experience during menopause.

No treatment is necessary for menopause, but many women may wish to treat their symptoms. Living a healthy lifestyle and eating well may reduce the severity of certain symptoms. Still, other women may enlist the assistance of medications and herbs to help alleviate their symptoms.

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