Menopause occurs when women stop having monthly menstrual cycles. This typically occurs between the ages of 45 to 55. Some patients can experience hot flashes, painful intercourse, mood swings, night sweats, interrupted sleep, and irritability. These symptoms can be treated with hormone replacement therapy in some women.  There are also non-hormonal alternatives for vaginal dryness and painful intercourse, such as lubricants or vaginal hormone treatment.