Menopause is a natural biological process where a woman’s menstrual cycle comes to a halt around the age of 50. However, some women experience it earlier than expected, around their late 30s or early 40s.

This is known as early onset menopause, or premature menopause.

Early onset menopause can be triggered by various factors, some of which are beyond our control. However, some surprising culprits could also be responsible.

In this article, we’ll explore 10 of these surprising culprits behind early onset menopause.

1. Smoking

Smoking has long been associated with various health risks, including lung diseases, cancer, and heart diseases. However, research shows that smoking could also be a significant risk factor for early onset menopause.

A study conducted by the University of Hong Kong found that women who smoked 100 or more cigarettes in their lifetime were twice as likely to experience early onset menopause compared to women who had never smoked.

This is because smoking can speed up the aging of the ovaries, leading to early depletion of the eggs.

2. Stress

Stress is a normal part of life, and our bodies have a natural way of coping with it. However, chronic stress could have adverse effects on our bodies, including disrupting our menstrual cycles, and leading to early onset menopause.

A study by the University of Queensland found that women who were exposed to high levels of stress were 60% more likely to experience early onset menopause.

This is because stress can reduce the levels of estrogen in the body, leading to irregular periods and eventually menopause.

3. Obesity

Obesity is a growing problem worldwide, and it has been linked to various health risks, including heart diseases, diabetes, and stroke. However, research shows that obesity could also be a risk factor for early onset menopause.

A study by the University of Adelaide found that women who were obese were 43% more likely to experience early onset menopause compared to women who had a healthy weight.

This is because obesity can disrupt the normal functioning of the reproductive system, leading to early depletion of the eggs.

4. Autoimmune disorders

Autoimmune disorders occur when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues in the body, leading to inflammation and damage. Research shows that certain autoimmune disorders could be risk factors for early onset menopause.

A study by the Mayo Clinic found that women with autoimmune disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus were more likely to experience early onset menopause.

This is because these disorders can affect the functioning of the ovaries, leading to premature depletion of the eggs.

5. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy

Chemotherapy and radiation therapy are common treatments for cancer. However, these treatments can also have adverse effects on the reproductive system, leading to early onset menopause.

A study by the American Cancer Society found that women who underwent chemotherapy were more likely to experience early onset menopause compared to women who did not undergo chemotherapy.

This is because chemotherapy can damage the ovaries, leading to early depletion of the eggs.

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6. Genetics

Genetics plays a significant role in determining the age at which a woman enters menopause. Research shows that women whose mothers experienced early onset menopause are more likely to experience it as well.

A study by the University of Exeter found that women with a family history of early onset menopause had a higher risk of experiencing it themselves.

This is because certain genes could affect the functioning of the ovaries, leading to early depletion of the eggs.

7. Hysterectomy

A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure where the uterus is removed. While it may be necessary for certain medical conditions, it can also lead to early onset menopause.

A study by the National Institute of Health found that women who underwent hysterectomy before the age of 40 were more likely to experience early onset menopause.

This is because the removal of the uterus can disrupt the blood supply to the ovaries, leading to premature depletion of the eggs.

8. Eating disorders

Eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia can have adverse effects on the reproductive system, leading to early onset menopause.

A study by the University of South Florida found that women with eating disorders were more likely to experience early onset menopause compared to women without eating disorders.

This is because eating disorders can lead to malnutrition and hormonal imbalances, disrupting the normal functioning of the reproductive system.

9. Environmental toxins

Exposure to environmental toxins such as pesticides, lead, and cadmium can have adverse effects on the reproductive system, leading to early onset menopause.

A study by the University of California, San Francisco found that women who were exposed to high levels of environmental toxins were more likely to experience early onset menopause.

This is because these toxins can disrupt the normal functioning of the ovaries, leading to premature depletion of the eggs.

10. Chronic diseases

Chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart diseases, and thyroid disorders can have adverse effects on the reproductive system, leading to early onset menopause.

A study by the University of Michigan found that women with chronic diseases were more likely to experience early onset menopause compared to women without chronic diseases.

This is because chronic diseases can affect the levels of estrogen in the body, disrupting the menstrual cycles and eventually leading to menopause.

Conclusion

Early onset menopause can be caused by various factors, some of which are beyond our control.

However, some surprising culprits such as smoking, stress, obesity, autoimmune disorders, chemotherapy and radiation therapy, genetics, hysterectomy, eating disorders, environmental toxins, and chronic diseases, can also be responsible.

It’s essential to live a healthy lifestyle, avoid exposure to harmful toxins, and seek medical attention if you experience any symptoms of early onset menopause.

While it’s impossible to delay or prevent menopause, taking care of our bodies can help us manage the symptoms and maintain optimal health.