Menopause is something that most women experience, typically between the ages of 45 and 55, marking the end of the reproductive years. However, for some women, this transition happens early or prematurely, in a phase known as early menopause.
Early, or premature menopause, occurs when a woman’s periods stop before the age of 40, and it can have a significant impact on physical and emotional well-being.
If you suspect you might be in premature menopause, make an appointment with your gynecologist so they can answer any questions you may have.
What is early menopause?
Menopause begins when it has been 12 consecutive months since a woman had her last menstrual period. Early menopause, on the other hand, is when this transition happens prematurely — before age 40. The average age of menopause is 51 in most women. However, premature menopause is relatively rare, affecting about 1 in 100 women.
There are several potential causes, including medical conditions, lifestyle factors and genetics. For some women, early menopause may happen without any apparent reason, but understanding the underlying causes can help in managing its effects.
What causes early menopause?
Genetics
Family history plays a significant role in when a woman enters menopause. If a woman’s mother or sister began menopause earlier than average, she may be more likely to as well. Genetic factors can determine when the ovaries stop producing eggs and hormones, leading to menopause.
Ovarian insufficiency
Sometimes, the ovaries stop functioning properly before the usual age of menopause. This condition, known as primary ovarian insufficiency (POI), can cause a woman to stop menstruating prematurely.
POI may occur for reasons that are not fully understood. In some cases, it’s linked to autoimmune disorders or genetic mutations.
Chemotherapy or radiation therapy
Women who undergo chemotherapy or radiation for cancer treatment may experience damage to their ovaries, leading to early menopause. Some treatments can cause the ovaries to stop producing eggs, triggering menopause symptoms.
Surgical menopause
This occurs when a woman has her ovaries removed, typically as part of a hysterectomy or for other medical reasons. In this case, menopause happens suddenly, as the body loses the source of estrogen and other reproductive hormones.
Chronic illnesses
Certain chronic diseases, such as thyroid disease or diabetes, can affect the functioning of the ovaries and may contribute to premature menopause.
Lifestyle factors
Smoking is one of the lifestyle factors known to bring on menopause earlier. Women who smoke tend to enter menopause about one to two years earlier than non-smokers. A poor diet, excessive alcohol consumption and high levels of stress may also play a role in accelerating the onset of menopause.
What are some symptoms to look for?
The symptoms of early menopause are very similar to those experienced by women undergoing menopause at the typical age, though they may feel more intense due to the sudden hormonal changes. Common symptoms include:
- Irregular periods: One of the first signs of early menopause is the change in menstrual cycle. Periods may become irregular, lighter or heavier. Eventually, they stop altogether.
- Hot flashes: Sudden feelings of intense heat, often followed by sweating, are one of the hallmark symptoms of menopause. These can occur at any time of day or night and can be particularly bothersome.
- Night sweats: Many women experience night sweats, which are hot flashes that occur during sleep. They can disrupt sleep, leading to fatigue and irritability.
- Mood swings: Hormonal fluctuations may lead to emotional instability, anxiety, sadness and irritability. This can affect a woman’s emotional well-being, relationships and overall quality of life.
- Decreased libido: A decrease in estrogen levels can also lead to a reduction in sexual desire. This can be frustrating and can affect intimacy in relationships.
- Vaginal dryness: Estrogen plays a critical role in maintaining vaginal moisture and elasticity. As estrogen levels drop, women may experience vaginal dryness, which can lead to discomfort during intercourse.
- Sleep disturbances: The combination of hot flashes, night sweats and hormonal shifts can interfere with sleep. Women may have difficulty falling or staying asleep, leading to daytime fatigue.
- Memory issues and difficulty concentrating: Some women report “brain fog,” including forgetfulness and difficulty focusing. Hormonal changes may cause this.
Diagnosing early menopause
If you suspect you might be experiencing premature menopause, it’s important to speak with your gynecologist. They will typically begin with a thorough medical history and a physical exam.
A blood test to measure hormone levels, including FSH (follicle-stimulating hormone) and estradiol, can help confirm the diagnosis. These hormones play key roles in regulating the menstrual cycle, and abnormal levels can signal that menopause is approaching.
In some cases, you may require additional tests to determine the underlying cause of early menopause. Examples include autoimmune testing, genetic testing or imaging studies.
Managing menopause
Although early menopause can be challenging, there are various ways to manage symptoms and maintain quality of life. These treatment options are available for women going through any stage of menopause.
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
For many women, hormone replacement therapy is the most effective way to manage menopause symptoms. It involves supplementing the body’s estrogen and progesterone levels, which can help reduce hot flashes, night sweats and vaginal dryness.
HRT can also protect against bone loss from osteoporosis, which can be a side effect of menopause.
Non-hormonal medications
For women who can’t take HRT or prefer not to, there are non-hormonal medications available. These may include antidepressants for mood swings, gabapentin for hot flashes and vaginal lubricants to manage dryness.
Lifestyle modifications
A healthy diet, regular exercise and stress management techniques can all help mitigate some of the symptoms. Avoiding triggers like caffeine, alcohol and smoking can also be beneficial in reducing hot flashes and night sweats.
Support groups and therapy
Emotional support is essential during this time. Joining a support group or seeing a therapist can help women process their feelings, manage mood swings and learn how to navigate relationships.
How we can help
Early menopause can be a difficult and emotional experience, but it’s important to remember that it’s a natural part of life for some women.
If you suspect that you are going through early menopause, it’s crucial to talk to your gynecologist. They can make informed recommendations for your symptoms to help you have the best quality of life possible during this transition.
Learn about the women’s health services we offer at Bon Secours.
