Women are usually in their late 40s or early 50s when the menopause transition starts. However, an earlier menopause can be the result of surgery, cancer treatment, or family genetics.

Often, it is observed that women reach menopause around the same age as their mothers. So genes tend to play a role. An active lifestyle, ideal weight and a healthy BMI (body mass index) tend to have a later menopause.Smokers may reach menopause about 2 years earlier than non-smokers. Multiple factors affect the menopause transition in a woman's body: genes, lifestyle, mental and emotional stress, nutrition etc Each of us, therefore, is different and unique.

Women are said to be in menopause when they have not had their period for 12 consecutive months. Additionally menopause is often accompanied by a range of symptoms commonly, such as hot flashes, sleeplessness, mood swings, dryness etc.

Some common physical symptoms are Hot flashes and night sweats Insomnia Fatigue Vaginal changes (dryness) Urinary incontinence Weight gain around the abdomen Dry skin and hair Some common mental symptoms are Sudden onset of emotions/ tears Mood swings and depression Memory and concentration decreases Decreased sex drive

From the last menstrual period, it’s usually four to five years. But this varies from woman to woman.