By Regina Molaro Hot flashes, night sweats and mood changes. These are just a few of the severe, disruptive and irritating symptoms associated with menopause – the biological stage in a woman’s life when menstrual periods cease. Officially diagnosed after 12 consecutive months without a period, menopause marks the end of natural fertility. The average age for menopause in the U.S. is 51 to 52 years old.