It is a physiological period in a woman's life, not to be considered a pathology, which is characterized by a series of physical and psychological disorders that depend on the progressive lack of hormones (including estrogen) and the involution of the functional activity of the ovaries. Menstruation ceases and the woman is no longer fertile. It typically begins around 40-50 years of age and lasts about 7-10 years.

In addition to the more obvious psychophysical symptoms that affect a woman's quality of life, the risks of medium and long-term hormonal deficiency and the complications induced on other organs and functions must also be considered.

Short-term symptoms: vasomotor (hot flashes, sweating), sleep disorders, depression, joint pain.

Medium-term symptoms: urogenital (vaginitis, discharge), rheumatological, sexual dysfunction.

Long-term complications: osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, central nervous system diseases.

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is effective in improving or preventing all symptoms, however it has serious side effects (depression, risk of breast and endometrial cancer) that outweigh the benefits.

Food supplements based on natural substances such as Griffonia simplicifolia, Agnus castus , Isoflavones, are a valid alternative to HRT because they are effective and risk-free.