Learn about the causes and effects of Premature Menopause on menstrual Hygiene Day

Women who stop having periods before the age of 45 are said to be in early menopause. When a woman goes 12 months without having her period, it is diagnosed. Menopause typically starts between the ages of 45 and 50, therefore any commencement before that is referred to as early menopause. Premature menopause is the term used to describe menopause that starts before the age of 40.

Causes:

Genetics have a significant role in the typical age of menopause, but there are other variables that might affect estrogen production and cause the menstrual cycle to end. Smoking is the only one of these elements that can be altered or adjusted. On the other hand, some risk factors, including having our ovaries surgically removed or enduring radiation therapy as part of cancer treatment, are out of our hands and cannot be changed. Additionally, autoimmune diseases including thyroid illness and rheumatoid arthritis might hasten the onset of menopause.

Symptoms

Perimenopause refers to the time frame before and following menopause. The following are some of the perimenopause symptoms that can begin as early as five years before real menopause:

• Period irregularities
• Changeable flow
• Vaginal aridity
• Hot flashes even when it's freezing outside
• Extreme alterations in mood
  
  

Effects

Your body stops releasing estrogen after menopause. In addition to the symptoms mentioned above, low estrogen levels can cause:

• Osteoporosis, which causes a drop in bone density
• An increase in harmful cholesterol, which has an impact on heart health
• Depression
• Memory loss
  
  

Treatment

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), a treatment that includes carefully weighing the risks and benefits before beginning, can help women who experience early menopause. It is significant to highlight that HRT is often avoided by women who have had breast cancer owing to possible hazards.

Without adequate supervision, using HRT for a lengthy period of time might raise the risk of blood clot development. The advantages of HRT, however, exceed the dangers in the majority of early menopausal women who do not have the aforementioned risk factors. Each person's demands should be taken into account when determining the hormone dosage and combination used in HRT.

Like adolescence and childbirth, menopause is a major life shift for women. Unfortunately, it is frequently mocked or ignored. We can de-stigmatize conversations about menopause and encourage women to seek treatment for the manageable issues it brings by arming them with factual information.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the average age for menopause to occur?

A: The average age for menopause to occur is typically between 45 and 50 years old.

Q: What is considered early menopause?

A: Early menopause is when a woman stops having periods before the age of 45. If menopause starts before the age of 40, it is referred to as premature menopause.

Q: Are there any factors that can affect estrogen production and cause early menopause?

A: Yes, there are factors that can affect estrogen production and lead to early menopause. While genetics play a significant role, smoking is one factor that can be modified. Additionally, certain risk factors such as surgical removal of the ovaries or undergoing radiation therapy as part of cancer treatment can contribute to early menopause. Autoimmune diseases like thyroid illness and rheumatoid arthritis can also hasten the onset of menopause.

Q: What are some symptoms experienced during perimenopause?

A: During perimenopause, which is the period before and following menopause, women may experience symptoms such as irregular periods, changes in menstrual flow, vaginal dryness, hot flashes, and extreme mood swings.

Q: What are the effects of menopause on the body?

A: Menopause leads to a decrease in estrogen levels, which can have various effects on the body. These effects may include a decrease in bone density leading to osteoporosis, an increase in harmful cholesterol impacting heart health, depression, and memory loss.

Q: What is Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) and how can it help with early menopause?

A: Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is a treatment option that can help women who experience early menopause. It involves carefully weighing the risks and benefits before starting the therapy. HRT can alleviate symptoms and provide hormonal support. However, it is important to note that women who have had breast cancer may avoid HRT due to potential risks. The dosage and combination of hormones used in HRT should be determined based on each individual's needs.

Q: How can we support women going through menopause?

A: We can support women going through menopause by destigmatizing conversations about it and providing them with accurate information. Encouraging open discussions and raising awareness about menopause can help women seek treatment for the manageable issues it brings. Providing emotional support, understanding, and access to healthcare resources are also important in supporting women during this life transition.