The word "menopause" comes from the Greek words "men" meaning month and "pausis" meaning cessation. So menopause literally means the "cessation of monthly cycles".
The term originated in the early 18th century when medical texts began using it to describe the natural ending of menstruation that occurs in midlife women. Some key events in the history of the word include:
- In 1816, a French doctor named Charles-Pierre Louis de Gardanne published a book called De la ménopause, ou de l'âge critique des femmes. This early medical text helped popularize the term "menopause" and its use soon spread to other languages.
- In 1821, an English translation introduced the word to the English-speaking world in a text called A Treatise on the Diseases and Hygiene of Females, at the Critical Period of Life.
- In the early 1900s, as more medical literature emerged around menopause, the term became widely used and understood as the marker of the end of a woman's reproductive years.
Over time, the word "menopause" has continued evolving:
- Originally carrying a negative connotation, now it has a more neutral and scientific meaning in medicine and culture.
- It refers not just to the final menstrual period but to the years surrounding it marked by hormonal shifts.
- Common related terms like "perimenopause" and "postmenopause" have their roots in the original word.
So in summary,
menopause entered the English lexicon in the 19th century as a medical term, eventually becoming the common household word we know today describing the milestone transition in midlife womanhood.
At Renew Hormone Center, we specialize in perimenopause and menopause care with compassionate doctors providing
individualized treatment plans that help women thrive during this transition and beyond. Our services include:
- Hormone therapy: Bioidentical hormones to relieve symptoms
- Telehealth visits: Convenient phone/video appointments
- Nutrition & lifestyle support: Counseling for diet, exercise, sleep, etc.
- Community events: Connecting with other women going through menopause
We understand the physical and emotional impacts of perimenopause and menopause. Our goal is to educate, empower, and walk alongside our patients during every step of their wellness journey.
Contact us today for a free 15-minute consultation to see how we can help you live your healthiest, happiest life before and after menopause.
