Stages of Reproductive Aging

Although the menopause transition is primarily thought of as a normal physiological transition, it is a time that encompasses the period of time when women are experiencing changes in the menstrual cycle reflective of endocrine changes. The physiologic processes can be difficult for providers to describe. In 2001, the Stages of Reproductive Aging Workshop (STRAW) developed a standardized approach to menopause terminology.

Please discuss the STRAW and the STRAW +10 definitions and why it is important for providers to have common language when communicating about the stages of menopause.