Menopause FAQs

Many women beginning their menopausal years have several unanswered questions about this stage in their life. Browse our menopause Q&A section below to find answers to our most frequently asked questions about menopause. If you still have questions about menopause or ACTIVELLA® after reviewing the information on this site, please consult with your health care professional.

What is menopause?

Menopause is a change in a woman's body function that usually happens between the ages of 44 and 55. It is a natural part of getting older, when your ovaries gradually stop producing the hormones estrogen and progesterone. As a result, your menstrual cycle changes, and eventually you stop having periods. As your blood levels of estrogen and progesterone begin to decline, you may experience symptoms such as irregular menstrual cycles, hot flashes, and vaginal atrophy. Menopause also increases your risk of osteoporosis, a condition characterized by a decrease in bone mass that leads to fragile bones and susceptibility to fracture.

What is hormone therapy (HT), and why is it important?

HT helps to supplement the female hormones estrogen and progestin (the synthetic form of progesterone) in women who are experiencing the symptoms of menopause. By supplementing estrogen, HT can help relieve many of the short-term symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes. Vaginal symptoms such as irritation, dryness, and discomfort are also effectively relieved by HT.

HT may also help to prevent bone loss and reduce the risk of postmenopausal osteoporosis.

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