Physical Changes During Adulthood (Complete Study Guide
on Menopause) The Ultimate Guide for 2026/2027
Reg Hardy
Grand Canyon University
PSY-358 Adult Development and Aging
Dr. Beau
November 30, 2025
, What is Menopause?
As people age, their bodies undergo many physical and hormonal
changes. One major transition that biological women experience is
menopause, a process that unfolds gradually and affects multiple
aspects of health and daily functioning. Menopause occurs across three
stages: perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause, each
bringing its own challenges and adjustments. According to Martin-Key
et al. (2025), menopause is defined as the permanent end of menstrual
cycles. While it most commonly occurs between ages 44 and 55, it can
begin earlier as a result of surgical procedures, certain medications, or
serious medical conditions. The transition starts with perimenopause, a
stage marked by declining ovarian function, fluctuating hormone levels,
and irregular menstrual cycles. Menopause itself is reached when a
woman has gone 12 consecutive months without a period. After this
point, she enters postmenopause, a stage that often lasts for the
remainder of her life. On average, women spend nearly 40 percent of
their lifespan in postmenopause, highlighting how significant this
transition is and why understanding its physical and emotional impacts
is essential for long-term well-being.
on Menopause) The Ultimate Guide for 2026/2027
Reg Hardy
Grand Canyon University
PSY-358 Adult Development and Aging
Dr. Beau
November 30, 2025
, What is Menopause?
As people age, their bodies undergo many physical and hormonal
changes. One major transition that biological women experience is
menopause, a process that unfolds gradually and affects multiple
aspects of health and daily functioning. Menopause occurs across three
stages: perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause, each
bringing its own challenges and adjustments. According to Martin-Key
et al. (2025), menopause is defined as the permanent end of menstrual
cycles. While it most commonly occurs between ages 44 and 55, it can
begin earlier as a result of surgical procedures, certain medications, or
serious medical conditions. The transition starts with perimenopause, a
stage marked by declining ovarian function, fluctuating hormone levels,
and irregular menstrual cycles. Menopause itself is reached when a
woman has gone 12 consecutive months without a period. After this
point, she enters postmenopause, a stage that often lasts for the
remainder of her life. On average, women spend nearly 40 percent of
their lifespan in postmenopause, highlighting how significant this
transition is and why understanding its physical and emotional impacts
is essential for long-term well-being.
