What term describes the gradual ending of reproductive years in women?

The term that describes the gradual ending of reproductive years in women is menopause. Menopause is a natural biological process that typically occurs in women in their late 40s to early 50s, marking the end of menstrual cycles and fertility. It is characterized by a decrease in the production of hormones such as estrogen and progesterone, which leads to various physical and emotional changes.

Menarche refers to the first occurrence of menstruation, marking the beginning of a woman's reproductive years, while menstruation itself is the monthly cycle during which the uterine lining sheds if there is no pregnancy. Lactation is related to the period of milk production in the breasts after childbirth. Therefore, menopause specifically denotes the conclusion of a woman's reproductive phase, making it the correct answer.