Menopause, as defined by the World Health Organization (WHO), is “the absence of menstrual periods for 12 months”. Early menopause, also known as premature ovarian failure, occurs when women under the age of 40 experiences menopause.
What causes early menopause?
The main causes of early menopause are genetic and autoimmune factors. Women who have a family history of early menopause are more likely to experience it themselves.
Autoimmune disorders such as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and Addison’s disease can also increase the likelihood of early menopause. Other risk factors include cancer treatments, such as radiation therapy and chemotherapy, and smoking.
Why is early menopause a concern?
Early menopause can have a significant impact on a woman’s physical and emotional health. It can lead to a higher risk of osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, and cognitive decline.
Early menopause can also impact fertility and the ability to conceive. Women who experience early menopause may also have higher rates of depression and anxiety.
Who is at risk of early menopause?
As mentioned earlier, women with a family history of early menopause, autoimmune disorders, cancer treatments, and smoking are more likely to experience early menopause.
Other factors that can put women at risk include being underweight, having surgery to remove the ovaries, and having certain genetic mutations.
Which females are not susceptible to early menopause?
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as every woman’s body is unique. However, certain lifestyle factors can help lower the risk of early menopause.
Eating a healthy diet and maintaining a healthy weight can help, as can exercising regularly and avoiding smoking.
What foods can help prevent early menopause?
Eating a diet rich in plant-based foods such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains may help lower the risk of early menopause. These foods are rich in phytoestrogens, which are natural compounds that can mimic the effects of estrogen in the body.
Soy and flaxseed are particularly rich in phytoestrogens and may be especially helpful in preventing early menopause.
What other lifestyle factors can help prevent early menopause?
Regular exercise, particularly weight-bearing exercise, has been shown to help maintain bone density and may help prevent early menopause. Avoiding smoking is also important, as smoking has been shown to increase the risk of early menopause.
Is there any medical treatment available for early menopause?
Yes, there are medical treatments available for women who experience early menopause.
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT), which involves taking estrogen and progesterone supplements, can help relieve symptoms of menopause and reduce the risk of osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease. Other treatments include low-dose birth control pills and vaginal estrogen therapy.
Conclusion
Early menopause can be a challenging condition to manage, but there are steps women can take to reduce their risk. Eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding smoking can all help.
Women who are at increased risk of early menopause should speak to their healthcare provider to discuss the best treatment options for them.