Menopause is a period in a woman's life subject to many changes. It is known that it is the complete cessation of menstruation, but the symptoms produced by it are often underestimated, even by health personnel. Through time, it has been mentioned in history, literature, culture, etc. There are many factors which condition the climacteric and menopause. The objective of this review is to compile information on the biological and social aspects that influence women´s health at this stage of their lives.