The average age of menopause
In Australia, the average age of natural menopause is around 51. Most women reach it somewhere between 45 and 55. Because menopause is only confirmed 12 months after your final period, you'll usually only know the exact date in hindsight.
Perimenopause — when symptoms often begin — typically starts in your mid-40s, but it's common for the first subtle changes (shifts in your cycle, sleep or mood) to appear in your early 40s.
Early and premature menopause
Menopause before 45 is called early menopause, and before 40 it's called premature menopause (or premature ovarian insufficiency). Together these affect roughly one in twelve women. Causes can include genetics, certain autoimmune conditions, surgery to remove the ovaries, or treatments like chemotherapy — though often no cause is found.
Early menopause matters beyond symptoms: a longer time with low oestrogen can affect bone and heart health, so it's worth diagnosing properly. If your periods stop or become very irregular before 45, see a GP.
What affects the timing?
Family history is one of the strongest predictors — women often reach menopause around a similar age to their mother or sisters. Smoking tends to bring menopause forward by a year or two. Some medical and surgical treatments can trigger it suddenly.
If you're wondering whether your symptoms are perimenopause, a GP can usually tell from your age and symptom pattern, sometimes with blood tests to rule out other causes. You don't need to wait until your periods stop to get help.
Related condition
Menopause & perimenopause →References & sources
- 1.Menopause — Jean Hailes for Women's Health
- 2.Menopause — Better Health Channel
- 3.Hormone replacement therapy — healthdirect
- 4.Post-menopause — healthdirect
- 5.Menopause health info — Australasian Menopause Society
This content is general information and not a substitute for individual medical advice. Please consult a GP for your personal situation.
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