India, Oct. 12 -- Menopause is a natural process signalling the end of menstruation in a woman. It usually occurs between the age of 45 and 55 years. Although the cycles may become irregular, but menopause is labelled only when menses do not occur for consecutive 12 cycles. Menopause is associated with decline in estrogens and progesterone -- the female hormones. Common symptoms besides irregular menses include hot flushes, night sweats, mood changes and sleep disturbances. In long term, menopause can affect bone health and cause vaginal dryness. A healthy lifestyle which includes balanced diet, regular exercise, and taking treatment for any medical problems which may be detected at this age is very important to mitigate the effects of menopause. There is no need of any regular hormone replacement therapy, but it may be given in specific cases. Understanding menopause empowers women to navigate this transition with confidence and maintain overall well-being. The author of the article is an MD (OB/GYN, PGIMER, Chandigarh), director, former assistant professor WHO/CCR, PGIMER, former fellow, University of Washington, Seattle, and RSA Kansas City, USA member, American Society for Reproductive Medicine, FOGSI/ISAR/IMA/ISO- PARB/IFS/ESHRE member, Fertility Preservation Society of India. She currently practises at Jindal IVF, SCO 21, Sector 20D, Dakshin Marg, Chandigarh, and can be contacted at 958-246-9429....