Menopause, which is the end of a woman's reproductive years, is a natural process that occurs in most women, typically between the ages of 45 and 55. It's important to remember that menopause is not a disease but a normal part of the ageing process that requires similar understanding and care as menstruation.
However, if your menopause hits earlier than it's supposed to, then you must take it up with your doctor, as it could indicate premature menopause, also known as premature ovarian insufficiency (POI). In an interaction with OnlyMyHealth, Dr Astha Dayal, Lead Consultant, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, CK Birla Hospital, Gurugram, sheds light on the condition and shares common health risks associated with it.
What Is Premature Menopause?
Menopause ideally starts between the ages of 45 and 55, with most women experiencing it at 51 on average, says Dr Dayal, adding that some women may experience menstrual stoppage outside of this range and still be considered healthy.
However, when a woman's ovaries quit working before the age of 40, it is referred to as early menopause, premature ovarian insufficiency, or premature ovarian failure, explains Dr Dayal.
As per a study published in the Annals of Medical and Health Sciences Research, premature menopause affects 1% of women under the age of 40, increasing their risk of a number of health challenges, including premature death, neurological diseases, psychosexual dysfunction, mood disorders, osteoporosis, ischemic heart disease, and infertility.
According to her, premature menopause can have a number of causes, including autoimmune diseases, genetics, certain medical procedures (such as radiation or chemotherapy), and surgical ovarian excision.
Symptoms Women Should Watch Out For
Dr Dayal shares that many symptoms of premature menopause are similar to those of natural menopause, but because it happens earlier in life, the effects may be more profound. Some of the symptoms include:
- An irregular menstrual cycle or no menstrual cycle is one of the main indicators of early menopause.
- Suddenly experiencing great warmth, frequently accompanied by face flushing and perspiration, are typical signs of menopause, particularly early menopause.
- During sexual activity, decreased oestrogen levels can cause vaginal dryness, itching, and discomfort.
- Hormonal changes brought on by menopause may be a factor in irritation, melancholy, anxiety, or mood swings.
- Arousal and sexual desire can be impacted by hormonal fluctuations
Health Risks Associated With Premature Menopause
Premature menopause is linked to several health hazards, says Dr Dayal.
She notes that early menopause can lead to lower oestrogen levels and is more likely to cause various health problems in women who experience it. This includes osteoporosis, which is characterised by weak and brittle bones; the early onset of heart disease; and the premature loss of ovarian function, which might further cause infertility.
A 2015 review published in Climacteric explored the health consequences of premature or early menopause and found that women who experience an earlier loss of oestrogen due to premature menopause are likely to have long-term health risks.
These risks include:
- Cognitive decline and dementia
- Mental health issues
- Bone loss and osteoporosis
- Cardiovascular complications, particularly from coronary heart disease (CHD),
- Other health concerns, such as an increase in the risk of glaucoma, macular degeneration, parkinsonism, and stroke
Why Consulting A Doctor Is Important
A doctor's advice is crucial for the proper management of premature menopause, Dr Dayal advises.
Sharing a few reasons why one must seek a doctor’s support, she lists:
An accurate diagnosis from a doctor can confirm whether symptoms are indeed due to premature menopause or if there's another underlying cause.
A medical professional can go over different treatment options with you in order to control symptoms and lower your chance of developing long-term health issues. This could involve various drugs, lifestyle changes, and hormone replacement therapy (HRT).
Conclusion
Premature menopause, occurring before the age of 40, brings about significant hormonal changes, impacting women's reproductive and overall health. It may also increase a woman's risk of chronic health conditions, such as heart disease and osteoporosis.
It is important to note that managing premature menopause is extremely crucial. It involves addressing its symptoms and associated health risks. Consult a doctor or a healthcare professional if you experience symptoms of menopause, especially if you are below the age of 40.