Is it normal to stop having periods at age 44?

Women naturally enter menopause at a certain age. So, is it normal for a 44-year-old woman to stop menstruating?

Is it normal for a 44-year-old woman to stop menstruating?

No, this is not normal. At age 44, a woman is still relatively young, and pregnancy should be ruled out first. There are many potential causes of amenorrhea (absence of menstruation), including pregnancy and menstrual disorders. Begin with a home pregnancy test to exclude pregnancy. If the result is negative, the cause may be a menstrual disorder. Traditional Chinese herbal formulas such as Si Wu Tang (Four-Ingredient Decoction) or Ba Zhen Wan (Eight-Treasure Pills) may be considered, but it is advisable to consult a physician for proper evaluation and personalized treatment. Possible underlying causes of amenorrhea include pregnancy, ovarian dysfunction, or uterine pathology. If menstruation is delayed by more than seven days, medical evaluation is recommended—including relevant diagnostic tests—to determine the precise cause and guide targeted treatment.

Menopause signifies the physiological transition into older age for women. After menopause, estrogen levels drop significantly, ovulation ceases, and reproductive capacity ends. Additionally, low estrogen leads to diminished libido, atrophy of genital organs, and systemic physiological changes. For example, cholesterol accumulation increases, predisposing women to weight gain. Reduced estrogen also accelerates calcium loss from bones, raising the risk of osteoporosis and other related manifestations.

Many women fear aging—and even reject their own aging selves. To delay the onset of menopause and slow aging, women should maintain a positive mindset, develop accurate self-awareness, practice self-compassion, and embrace themselves fully. We hope this information is helpful. Wishing you good health and happiness!