Reference
Menopause glossary
Every term you're likely to hear during the menopausal transition, defined in plain English. Sourced. Educational only.
Perimenopause
The transition years leading up to menopause.
Menopause
The point 12 consecutive months after the final period.
Postmenopause
Every year after the menopause anniversary.
Premature menopause
Menopause before age 40.
Early menopause
Menopause between 40 and 45.
Surgical menopause
Menopause caused by removal of the ovaries.
Vasomotor symptoms (VMS)
Hot flashes and night sweats.
Hot flash
A sudden episode of heat and flushing.
Night sweat
A hot flash occurring during sleep.
Estradiol
The primary estrogen produced by the ovaries.
Estrogen
The family of female sex hormones.
Progesterone
A hormone that supports the second half of the cycle.
Testosterone
A hormone women make in small amounts.
FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone)
A pituitary hormone that rises in the transition.
LH (Luteinizing Hormone)
A pituitary hormone tied to ovulation.
AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone)
A marker of ovarian reserve.
Menstrual cycle
The monthly hormonal cycle.
Anovulatory cycle
A cycle without ovulation.
Luteal phase
The second half of the menstrual cycle.
Follicular phase
The first half of the cycle.
Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM)
Changes in urinary and vaginal tissues after menopause.
Vaginal atrophy
Older term for tissue changes now within GSM.
Osteoporosis
Reduced bone density with increased fracture risk.
Osteopenia
Lower-than-typical bone density, above the osteoporosis threshold.
DXA scan
The imaging test that measures bone density.
Cardiovascular risk
The risk of heart and vessel disease, which rises after menopause.
Cortisol
The primary stress hormone.
Allopregnanolone
A calming metabolite of progesterone.
Serotonin
A neurotransmitter involved in mood.
Hypothalamus
The brain region that regulates temperature and hormones.
HPO axis
The hormonal loop between brain and ovaries.
Formication
A sensation of insects crawling on the skin.
Vaginal microbiome
The bacterial community of the vagina.
Pelvic floor
The muscles supporting the bladder, uterus, and bowel.
Adhesive capsulitis (frozen shoulder)
Shoulder pain and stiffness peaking in midlife women.
Thermoneutral zone
The narrow temperature range that doesn't trigger a heat response.
Sarcopenia
Age-related loss of muscle mass.
Visceral fat
Fat stored around abdominal organs.
Melatonin
A hormone that signals nighttime.
CBT for menopause
An evidence-based talk therapy adapted for menopause symptoms.
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