Menopause Vs Early Menopause: Discover The Common Causes And Signs

Menopause…Perhaps the word conjures up visions of middle-aged women fanning themselves in the middle of the night. Unfortunately, TV and movies don’t provide us with diverse images of menopause. So, if you’re experiencing signs of early menopause, the transition might catch you off guard. Here’s everything you need to know, including what it is, common causes, and signs.

What is menopause?

Menopause, by definition, means you have gone 12 months without a period. Technically the time leading up to it is perimenopause, also known as the menopausal transition. You’ll probably hear family and friends refer to it as “going through menopause.” Unfortunately, the phrase doesn’t have a very positive connotation, especially since the symptoms can make it difficult for many women.

Once menopause occurs, you can no longer become pregnant. For some women, this feels liberating, while others might mourn the end of their reproductive years. Regardless of how you feel, the more you know about what to expect, the better prepared you can be when the time comes.

When does the menopausal transition usually start?

All women go through menopause, some sooner rather than later. Menopause symptoms usually begin after the age of 40. According to The North American Menopause Society, perimenopause lasts 4 to 8 years. The average age of menopause in the US is 51.

What causes premature or early menopause?

Menopause occurs once your ovaries stop making certain hormones. If this happens earlier than the average age, then it is called premature or early menopause. Early menopause age is defined as 45 or younger. If your periods stop before age 40, then it’s called premature menopause. Approximately 5% of women naturally go through early menopause, according to the Department of Health and Human Services Office on Women’s Health. However, several factors may play a role.

Causes of premature or early menopause:

• Genetics: Talk to your grandmother, mother, older sisters, and aunts. If any of them had premature or early menopause, then there’s a chance you might, too.
• Smoking: Smokers begin the menopausal transition about two years earlier than nonsmokers.
• Cancer treatment and radiation: Certain cancer treatments and radiation can lead to premature or early menopause. Radiation focused on the brain or pelvic area has a higher risk of causing menopause.
• Underlying conditions: Certain conditions, such as chromosomal abnormalities or autoimmune diseases, lead to premature or early menopause,
• Hysterectomy: If the doctor removes your ovaries together with the uterus, you will experience menopause immediately after surgery. If one or both of your ovaries remain, you will probably undergo menopause within five years after surgery.

What are the signs of early menopause?

Signs of early and premature menopause are the same as the symptoms of natural menopause. You will likely notice your periods becoming less frequent or stop altogether. Many women also experience the most infamous menopause symptoms: hot flashes and night sweats.

Other common menopause symptoms include:

• Vaginal dryness
• Difficulty sleeping
• Depression or anxiety
• Reduced sex drive
• Problems with memory and concentration
• Loss of bladder control (incontinence)

If you think you have early or premature menopause, make an appointment to see your doctor. Depending on your age and other factors, you may need to discuss contraception and hormone replacement therapy, or other treatments to alleviate your symptoms.

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