Hi, I'm Dr. Felice Gersh, an integrative OBGYN. Here to answer questions from the plusOne community. Today I wanna talk about a question I get asked all the time. How long does menopause last?

The answer isn't as clear cut as you might think. From the reproductive phase of a woman's life to the post reproductive phase, and that's where the confusion often starts. The term menopause can refer to the whole transition or specific parts of it leading up to the menopause. There's perimenopause. During this time, estrogen and progesterone levels decline, but you still have menstrual periods and menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, brain fog and vaginal dryness frequently begin. This stage can last several years, even up to a decade.

Menopause is officially defined as 12 consecutive months without menstrual bleeding. After that, you're considered to be in menopause or postmenopausal. Either way, it's permanent. Your ovaries stop reducing estradiol and progesterone. Fertility ends and natural periods won't return. However, menopausal symptoms can continue for several more years.

The important thing to remember is that while menopause is a natural part of aging, the symptoms though sometimes severe are not inevitable. We have treatments that can help. If you have questions or concerns, I encourage you to reach out to a menopause informed healthcare provider. For more on menopause and women's health, check out the plusOne Wellness Collective and follow along to see what question is answered next. Take care of yourself.