How Long Does Menopause Last?

The menopause transition is different for every woman, but understanding the typical timelines can help you know what to expect.

Perimenopause - the lead-up to menopause - can last anywhere from a few months to several years, with an average of around four years.

Menopause itself is a single point in time: the moment you have gone 12 consecutive months without a period.

After menopause, you are in postmenopause for the rest of your life.

Some symptoms, particularly hot flushes, can continue for several years after menopause, though they typically become less frequent and less intense over time.

Every woman's experience is different - there is no single "normal" timeline.