Why does menopause cause periods to stop?

During the menopause transition, the ovaries release eggs less regularly and produce changing amounts of oestrogen and progesterone. The uterine lining may build and shed unpredictably, so periods can become lighter, heavier, closer together or further apart. Eventually, ovulation stops and the lining is no longer prepared for a regular cycle. Menopause is reached after twelve months without a period, when no other explanation accounts for the absence. Pregnancy, some medicines, stress, weight changes, thyroid disorders and other reproductive conditions can also stop bleeding, especially before this point.

Note the date and pattern of each bleed, including spotting, flow changes, pain and related symptoms. If pregnancy is possible, use a pregnancy test and discuss the result with a clinician. Ask about evaluation if periods stop unexpectedly, if the change happens earlier than expected, or if bleeding becomes difficult to manage. Treatment is not needed simply because periods end, but support is available for hot flushes, sleep problems, vaginal symptoms or mood changes.

Contact a clinician for bleeding after twelve months without a period, repeated bleeding between periods, bleeding after sex, or flow that causes dizziness or unusual tiredness. Seek urgent care for very heavy bleeding, fainting, severe pelvic pain or possible pregnancy with pain or bleeding. These patterns need assessment because the cause may not be the menopause transition.

Does my bleeding pattern fit the menopause transition? Should pregnancy or another condition be checked? What should I record before my appointment? How can troublesome bleeding or related symptoms be treated?