(1) Every woman who has periods will go through the menopause at some time in her life, usually between the ages of 42 and 58.

(2) In women after the menopause , the lack of oestrogen can lead to a weakening of the muscles associated with the bladder and the urethral sphincter.

(3) I wondered if I was starting the menopause , but decided that I was too young.

(4) Menstrual cycles can occur without ovulation taking place as the menopause approaches.

(5) Loss of muscle increases six-fold at the time of the menopause so it may have a connection with estrogen.

(6) Smokers and childless women are known to go through the menopause at a younger age than other women.

(7) After menopause , the ovaries produce lower levels of the hormones estrogen and progesterone.

(8) Some view the menopause as a significant stage in ageing.

(9) Smoking can cause infertility and an early menopause in women, and sperm problems in men.

(10) The hot flushes and the night sweats have been worse than when I was just through the natural menopause .

(11) Other reported menopausal symptoms include night sweats, insomnia, headaches, weight gain and general irritability.

(12) Dietary phytoestrogens, found in soya bean and linseed, are thought to help relieve vasomotor menopausal symptoms.

(13) Nearly 24 million North American women are in their menopausal years and the vast majority of them gain weight over this time.

(14) Five trials with a total of 400 participants studied the effects of red clover on menopausal symptoms.

(15) The roots and rhizomes are widely used in the treatment of menopausal symptoms and menstrual dysfunction.