Welcome to the Web site of The North American Menopause Society (NAMS). Menopause is the final menstrual period, which can be confirmed after going 12 consecutive months without a period, or when both ovaries are surgically removed or damaged. Menopause can result in unpleasant symptoms for some women as well as increase risk of serious disease later in life. NAMS is the leading nonprofit scientific organization devoted to promoting women's health and quality  of life through an understanding of menopause. We are pleased to provide accurate and unbiased information about menopause, perimenopause, early menopause, menopause symptoms and long-term health effects of estrogen loss, and a wide variety of strategies and therapies to enhance health, including hormone therapy and bioidentical hormones.