Brief Answer: menopause is a year with no period Detailed Answer: Hi, thanks for using healthcare magic Menopause is said to have occurred when a woman goes through a full year without any period at all. If for at least a year,she hasn't experienced any period at all then she is menopausal. If she has experienced at least 1 period within the last year,she would be called perimenopausal. This is the time prior to the onset of menopause. During this time , which can last for months to years, the period changes. It may become irregular, shorter or lighter. In addition there are other symptoms such as vaginal dryness, hot flashes, irritability, depressed mood, insomnia, fatigue, decreased libido. I hope this helps, feel free to ask any other questions

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