Menopause naturally happens in women by the age of 50; however, due to genetics, medical methods, or illness, few women may undergo menopause even before the age of 40. Menopause that specifically takes place before the age of say 50, whether natural or induced, is termed premature menopause. The risk factors for early menopause include hot flashes, mood swings, and a few other signs. Premature menopausal women may face additional mental and physical issues. For example, if a woman wants to get pregnant, she is likely to face danger as the chances of fertility start getting impacted by the age of 35. Dr. Asmita Dongare provides you with expertise and resources by offering tips on the causes and signs of early menopause. She is the Female Gynecologist in Wakad and gives the best treatment and guidance.
Causes of Early Menopause:
In the opinion of Dr. Asmita Dongare, a major portion affecting menopause is the ovarian function decreasing which results in less estrogen being produced. Several factors can contribute to this early decline:
Genetics: Family history plays an important role. If close relatives experienced early menopause, you’re at higher risk.
Medical therapies: Cancer treatments like chemotherapy or radiation can damage ovaries, triggering early menopause.
Surgeries: Removal of both ovaries (oophorectomy) or sometimes even a hysterectomy can induce menopause.
Autoimmune conditions: Conditions like lupus or thyroid disease can attack the ovaries, impacting their function.
Chromosomal abnormalities: Turner syndrome and Fragile X syndrome can affect ovarian development and function.
Environmental factors: Exposure to toxins like certain chemicals or infections like mumps may play a role, though research is ongoing.
Symptoms of Early Menopause:
Dr. Amita Dongare suggests that your main sign is irregular periods, including skipped periods, lighter or heavier bleeding, or longer cycles. However, some women suffer from menopause without noticeably changing their menstrual cycles. Other signifying signs include:
Hot flashes and night sweats: These sudden surges of heat and sweating are often the most recognizable signs.
Vaginal dryness: Reduced estrogen can lead to thinner, less elastic vaginal tissue, causing discomfort during sex or irritation.
Sleep disturbances: Difficulty falling or staying asleep is common due to hot flashes and hormonal changes.
Mood swings and irritability: Declining estrogen can affect brain chemicals, leading to emotional changes.
Reduced libido: Low estrogen levels can cause decreased sexual desire and arousal.
Cognitive changes: Some women experience forgetfulness, difficulty concentrating, or brain fog.
Long-term health risks: Early menopause increases the risk of osteoporosis, heart disease, and dementia over time.
Living with Early Menopause:
Even though facing early menopause might be stressful physically and emotionally, you’re not alone. You can navigate this phase if you have the correct help and management methods:
Consult a doctor: Proper evaluation and therapies are necessary. Menopause can be verified, options for therapy talked about, and any concerns can be addressed by your gynecologist/expert.
Hormone therapy (HT): Replacing estrogen can alleviate symptoms like hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and sleep disturbances. However, HT isn’t suitable for everyone, so discuss potential risks and benefits with your gynecologist.
Lifestyle changes: Keeping a good diet, controlling stress, exercising frequently, and consuming plenty of water will all greatly help your menopausal well-being.
Emotional support: To discuss experiences and handle psychological challenges, get in contact with friends, family, or support groups.
Early menopause doesn’t define you. By understanding the causes and symptoms, seeking professional guidance, and adopting healthy habits, you can embrace this transition with confidence and thrive in this new chapter of your life. In case you want to conceive but are experiencing any of the above symptoms, you should consult a fertility specialist. Dr. Asmita Dongare which provide you with appropriate treatment and diagnosis of infertility issues.