The timing of menopause is an indicator of underlying health and can act as a sentinel for future health status. The average age at natural menopause is 50–51 years in high-income countries. Premature ovarian insufficiency (menopause before the age of 40 years) and early menopause (between 40 and 44 years) have been linked with a range of chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease and premature mortality. In this chapter, we use a life course approach to understand how early life experiences and exposures influence the timing of natural menopause and subsequent health outcomes. We also highlight common symptoms experienced during the menopausal transition.