Menopause is a natural biological process marking the end of a woman's reproductive years, typically occurring in their late 40s to early 50s. It is defined as the cessation of menstrual periods for 12 consecutive months and is accompanied by a decrease in hormone production, particularly estrogen and progesterone. Symptoms may include hot flashes, night sweats, mood changes, and sleep disturbances. While menopause is a normal part of aging, its effects can vary widely among individuals.