Premature Menopause

Premature menopause refers to menopause that develops before age 40. Sometimes, premature menopause occurs naturally; sometimes it is caused by things like ovarian surgery or cancer treatments. Diagnosing premature menopause begins with a review of symptoms; however, in some cases, blood tests that check the levels of specific hormones in the body may be necessary to diagnose the condition.

 

Premature Menopause: An Introduction

The term "premature menopause" is used to refer to menopause that occurs before the age of 40, whether it's natural or induced. Women who enter menopause early get symptoms similar to those of natural menopause, like hot flashes, emotional problems, vaginal dryness, and decreased sex drive. For some women with premature menopause, these symptoms of menopause are severe. Also, women who experience premature menopause tend to get weaker bones faster than women who enter menopause later in life. This increases their chances of getting osteoporosis and breaking a bone.
 

Causes of Premature Menopause

Premature menopause can be caused by a few different things, including:
 
  • Chromosome defects
  • Genetics
  • Autoimmune diseases
  • Surgery to remove ovaries
  • Chemotherapy or radiation treatment.
     
Chromosome Defects
Defects in the chromosomes can cause premature menopause. For example, women with Turner's syndrome are born without a second X chromosome or without part of the chromosome. The ovaries don't form normally, and early menopause is often the result.
 
Genetics
Women with a family history of premature menopause are more likely to have early menopause themselves.
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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD