A year without having my periods: am I in menopause?

No more period equals menopause? It depends, it’s a matter of months before it is confirmed so, let’s count first.

Author : Dr. Lorraine Maitrot

Ovarian activity may be uneven, hence the irregular periods

This is probably the number one question. How come this thing that’s been happening to me every month or so for the past 30 to 40 years is suddenly stopping and how many months without it before I can actually consider it definitely over?

A woman is confirmed to be in menopause following 12 consecutive months without a period. However, certain women see their periods return even after a year without them. This can represent a return of ovarian activity when the ovaries begin functioning again, but only temporarily. A pelvic  ultrasound can eliminate other reasons for the bleeding.
Recommendation will be to follow up on regular gynecologist check in order to be sure of ovarian activity.

TIPS
● 12 months in a row without a period is often a sign that menopause occurred
● Gynecological regular check is recommended in order to be sure of ovarian activity