In a phenomenon some sociologists have dubbed "youth creep," the meaning of middle age in America today is different than what it was just a generation ago. Doctors now consider 55, rather than 40, as the turning point into middle age. Women reaching their 40s and 50s today can look forward to a vigorous, active, and healthy middle and old ageparticularly if they take responsibility for the preventive health care that can help keep them in good physical and mental condition.
Changes at Midlife
Women may notice the first signs of bodily changes in their menstrual patterns, skin, and shape as early as their late 30s. Menopausethe cessation of the menstrual cycleis certainly the most notable sign of advancing age for women. The hormonal changes that spur the end of menstruation affect our entire bodies, from the texture of our skin to the condition of our heart and bones.
The medical definition of menopause is the end of menstruation, so menopause can only be diagnosed after the fact. But the bodily changes leading up to menopause may take place over a decade. Most women reach menopause between the ages of 45 and 55. At age 52, 80 percent will no longer be menstruating. There does not appear to be any consistent relationship between a woman's age at the onset of menopause and her age at her first menstruation, nor does marriage, childbearing, height, weight, or use of oral contraceptives appear to make a difference. However, women who smoke do tend to reach menopause a year or two earlier than nonsmokers.