A number of changes take place in the female reproductive system as a woman ages. The most obvious sign of aging for women is the ceasing of menses or the menopause period of life. This is not the only change that occurs in the female reproductive system. There is also a period called the “climacteric,” which lasts for many years before and after a woman’s last menstrual period.

Most women experience menopause around the age of 50. Menopause occurs before age 40 in about 8% of women. Prior to the total ceasing of menses, menstrual cycles usually become irregular. Menopause is said to officially occur when there has been one year without a menstrual period. Many symptoms that accompanies menopause are caused by the hormone changes. Most women pass through the menopause period without having to seek medical attention.