Course of disease
A rule of thumb is that menopause begins about 5-6 years before menopause and continues for 5-6 years after menopause. During this period the body gets used to the hormonal changes. The symptoms are also most severe during this period.
If there are no severe secondary symptoms due to the hormone deficiency, the symptoms subside after this interval, and the body has become fully accustomed to the new hormone balance. About halfway through the menopause, menopause sets in, which is characterized by the absence of ovulation and menstruation.
