How menopause is defined
Clinically, menopause marks the end of reproductive years. It is not a disease — it is a natural life stage — but the hormone changes that accompany it can significantly affect quality of life, bone density, sleep, mood, sexual health, and cardiovascular risk. Surgical menopause (after ovary removal) and premature ovarian insufficiency can cause earlier onset and often more abrupt symptoms.
Menopause stages
Perimenopause is the transition before the final period, often lasting several years, with fluctuating hormones and irregular cycles. Menopause is the point 12 months after the last period. Postmenopause is all the years after that point. Many symptoms begin in perimenopause; some (especially vaginal and urinary changes) can persist or worsen after menopause without treatment. See what is perimenopause?
Common menopause symptoms
Vasomotor symptoms (hot flashes and night sweats), sleep disruption, vaginal dryness, low libido, mood changes, anxiety, brain fog, joint discomfort, and midlife weight redistribution are among the most reported. HormoneFit treats these symptoms for women across Ontario using personalized, guideline-aligned care — see our symptoms page.
Treatment options
For many women, systemic hormone replacement therapy (estrogen with progesterone if the uterus is present) is the most effective treatment for moderate to severe hot flashes. Local vaginal estrogen can treat genitourinary symptoms with minimal systemic absorption. Non-hormonal medications and lifestyle strategies are appropriate alternatives or complements. Safety depends on age, time since menopause, and medical history — covered in Is HRT safe?
Menopause care in Ontario with HormoneFit
HormoneFit connects women throughout Ontario with licensed physicians experienced in menopause and hormone therapy through virtual visits. Care plans may include HRT, non-hormonal options, and ongoing follow-up focused on symptom relief and long-term health (bone, heart, and metabolic wellness).