Which of the following best defines menopause?

Menopause is defined as the cessation of menstruation, marking the end of a woman's reproductive years. It typically occurs in middle age, and the transition can involve a variety of physical and hormonal changes. During menopause, the ovaries cease to produce eggs, and the production of hormones like estrogen and progesterone declines, leading to the end of menstrual cycles. This definition is distinct from other life stages and processes such as menstruation, which refers to the regular monthly discharge of blood, or puberty, which is the onset of sexual maturity and the beginning of menstruation. Since menopause signifies a specific biological event in a woman's life, option C accurately captures its essence.