What does menopause mean Meaning and Definition

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What does menopause mean

What does menopause mean

Pronunciation

/ˈmɛnəpɔːz/

Part of Speech

Noun

Definition

A natural biological process in women that occurs at the end of the reproductive period, typically between the ages of 45 and 55, characterized by the cessation of menstrual cycles and a decline in estrogen levels.

Examples

  • She experienced symptoms of menopause, including hot flashes and mood swings.
  • Menopause is a natural part of aging, but it can also be induced by surgery or medical treatment.

Synonyms

  • Climacteric
  • Change of life

Antonyms

  • Puberty
  • Menstruation

Additional Information

Menopause is a significant life event that can have physical, emotional, and psychological effects on women. The symptoms of menopause can vary in severity and duration, but common experiences include hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and vaginal dryness. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a common treatment for menopause symptoms, but it is not suitable for all women. Lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and managing stress, can also help alleviate symptoms.

Menopause is a natural part of aging, but it can also be induced by surgery or medical treatment. Women who undergo a hysterectomy or have their ovaries removed may experience menopause earlier than women who do not have these procedures. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy can also induce menopause in some women.

Menopause has significant social and cultural implications. In some cultures, menopause is seen as a natural part of life, while in others it is stigmatized or viewed as a sign of aging. Women’s experiences of menopause can vary greatly depending on their cultural background, socioeconomic status, and access to healthcare.

Eymology

The word “menopause” comes from the Greek words “men” meaning “month” and “pausis” meaning “cessation”. The term was first used in the 19th century to describe the cessation of menstrual cycles in women.

Usage Notes

Menopause is often used interchangeably with “perimenopause”, which refers to the transition period leading up to menopause. However, menopause specifically refers to the point at which a woman has not had a menstrual period for 12 consecutive months.

Cultural References

Menopause has been referenced in popular culture in various ways, including in films, television shows, and literature. The 1997 film “Menopause: The Musical” is a comedy that explores the experiences of four women going through menopause.

Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases

  • “Going through the change” – a colloquialism for menopause
  • “Hot flash” – a sudden feeling of heat, often accompanied by sweating and flushing

Related Words or Phrases

  • Perimenopause
  • Postmenopause
  • Menstruation
  • Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)

Collocations

  • Menopause symptoms
  • Menopause treatment
  • Menopause age
  • Menopause experience

Frequency of Use

Menopause is a relatively common term in modern language, particularly in medical and health contexts. According to Google Trends, the term “menopause” has a moderate to high frequency of use, with a score of 62 out of 100.

Common Misspellings

  • Menopaus
  • Menapause
  • Menapuse

Related Words