Plus, what this may mean for your health.
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| | | | | Q | | What causes early menopause, and how is it generally managed? | | | | A | | Menopause — defined as not having had a period for 12 consecutive months — typically happens between the ages of 45 and 55. However, some people experience menopause much earlier. When it happens before age 45, it is called early menopause. If it occurs before age 40, it is referred to as premature menopause or primary ovarian insufficiency.
Early menopause means the ovaries stop producing the hormones estrogen and progesterone earlier than expected, which leads to the end of menstrual periods and the ability to become pregnant naturally. This change can bring about the same symptoms as typical menopause, including hot flashes, night sweats, mood changes, and sleep disturbances. It also increases the risk of long-term health issues, including osteoporosis (weak bones), heart disease, and sometimes memory or mood issues.
There are several reasons why early menopause can happen. Sometimes, it runs in families, so genetics may play a role. Other causes include autoimmune diseases, certain infections, and metabolic conditions. Medical treatments such as chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery to remove the ovaries can also lead to early menopause. Lifestyle factors such as smoking and having a low body weight have been linked to a higher risk of early menopause. In many cases, the exact cause is not known.
Managing early menopause focuses on relieving symptoms and protecting long-term health. The main treatment is hormone therapy, which replaces the estrogen that the body is no longer making.
Experts recommend continuing hormone therapy until the average age of natural menopause, unless there are reasons not to use it, such as a history of certain cancers. Hormone therapy can help with hot flashes and vaginal dryness and can lower the risk of bone loss and heart disease. For people who cannot take hormones, nonhormonal treatments and lifestyle changes, such as getting regular physical activity, eating a balanced diet, and quitting smoking, are important.
Early diagnosis and support from healthcare professionals are key to managing symptoms and reducing health risks. If you have questions or concerns about early menopause, talk with a healthcare professional about the best options for you. | | | | | | | | Do you have any questions for our menopause experts? Let us know at menopause@healthline.com, and the answer may be featured in an upcoming edition! | | | | | | | | | | | | | HEALTHY TIP | | Work with a doctor to create a treatment plan | | If you're experiencing early menopause or if your menopause symptoms are affecting your quality of life, it may be helpful to work with a doctor who is familiar with supporting this phase of life. Optum Now's Find Care tool can be an excellent resource for finding medical professionals who are familiar with hormonal and nonhormonal treatments. | | | | | | | | | |   | |  | | | | We may feature your messages to our inbox within our content. Please do not provide any personal identifiable information. Replies may be edited for length and clarity. For more, see our Privacy Policy. | Healthline, Optum Now, and their respective logo(s) are trademarks of RVO Health, LLC.
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