Mission Physical Therapy

Med Word Wednesday 🧠
Today’s term: Menopause

Menopause = the single day that marks 12 consecutive months without a menstrual cycle, signaling the end of reproductive years.

A lot of people think of menopause as a phase of life—but technically, it’s actually just one day.

But what does that actually mean for you?
👉 The time leading up to it is called perimenopause
👉 The time after it is called postmenopause
👉 Menopause itself is the one day in between

Understanding the difference matters because symptoms can look very different depending on where you are in the process.

Perimenopause is often when people experience the most hormonal shifts and symptoms like:
👉 Hot flashes
👉 Sleep changes
👉 Mood shifts
👉 Weight changes
👉 Joint pain
👉 Changes in bladder, bowel, or pelvic health

Postmenopause is the stage after that 12-month mark, where your body continues adjusting to its new hormonal baseline.

Knowing the right terminology can help you better understand, explain, and advocate for what your body is experiencing.

If you’re struggling with symptoms or have questions about where you may be in the process, come see us—we’d love to help.

Follow along each week as we break down medical terms into real-life language you can actually use.