[What is menopause?].

Menopause is a natural phenomenon consisting in follicles atresia and decrease in ovarian hormonal secretions. The mean age of menopause is 51 years. It is known that follicles atresia is partially explained by genetics factors. During this period, we observe hormonal variations. The most important of them are an elevation of FSH level, a decrease in estrogens. We also note a variation of androgens secretion. Hypo-oestrogenia induces various clinical symptoms. Some of them occur early in menopause (climateric syndrom), others occur later (osteoporosis, cardiovascular diseases).