How Early Can Menopause Start?
Menopause marks the end of a woman’s childbearing years, and some reach the milestone as early as 45 years of age. On average, most women reach menopause between the ages of 47 to 51. Natural menopause can occur between the ages of 45 to 55. A year or more of absent menstrual periods marks the onset of menopause. Before menopause, a transitional stage occurs, where the body prepares for menopause. After the body completes the transitional stage, a woman reaches menopause.