Menopause is when you stop getting periods, and you can no longer become pregnant. Although the average age of women reaching menopause is the early 50s, some women enter menopause in their 40s (early menopause), and some experience it before 40 (premature menopause).
It’s important to know what’s happening in your body and why you experience perimenopause symptoms earlier than the ideal age. This will help you know when to seek menopause treatment in Thane. Here’s a look at the common symptoms, causes, diagnostic procedures, and treatment options for premature menopause.
Symptoms & Causes
Certain factors can increase your risk of getting premature menopause. There’s no single cause. A mix of factors can contribute to a heightened risk.
Causes of Premature Menopause
Any condition, whether genetic or treatment-related, that damages your ovaries and decreases the production of estrogen can cause premature menopause.
Family history, in which your mother, sister, or a close relative has experienced early menopause, can also increase your risk. Autoimmune disorders, such as lupus or thyroid diseases, can also contribute to a higher risk of premature menopause.
Other causes include medical treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation therapy, or surgery to remove the ovaries. Additionally, some lifestyle factors, such as smoking, stress, and low body weight, are common risk factors.
Symptoms of Premature Menopause
Symptoms of early or premature menopause are similar to normal menopause, although some women describe it as quicker, more physically and mentally demanding.
- Irregular periods or no periods for several months
- Hot flashes
- Night sweats
- Low libido
- Irritability and mood swings
- Vaginal dryness
- Difficulty falling or staying asleep
- Thinning hair
Diagnosis & Tests
If you have been experiencing the symptoms of menopause before 40, it’s a good idea to consult a gynaecologist in Thane for evaluation. They may ask about your symptoms and family history. Certain tests, such as thyroid tests, estradiol (estrogen), AMH, and FSH, can help with the diagnosis. In some cases, a bone density test is needed, as menopause can affect your bone health.
Management & Treatment
Doctors may advise hormone replacement therapy to compensate for the low estrogen in your body. The therapy might go on until you’ve reached the natural age for menopause. Hormone therapy helps you cope with the symptoms that occur because of declining estrogen.
It helps manage your bone and heart health while also preventing hot flashes, mood swings, vaginal dryness, and sleep issues. If HRT is unsafe due to medical conditions, other treatment options that can help manage symptoms might be recommended.
Vaginal moisturisers and lubricants, for example, can help you manage vaginal dryness. Antidepressants can be used for hot flashes and mood issues, while bone-protective treatments are for women with low bone density.
Prevention & Risks
Unfortunately, most causes of premature menopause, such as genetics or treatment for medical conditions, like cancer, are unpreventable. Smoking and controlling stress are the only lifestyle factors linked to an increased risk of early menopause that can be controlled.
See a gynaecologist if you experience early signs of menopause. If you are under 40, your healthcare provider will work with you to figure out a suitable treatment plan that can help manage your symptoms and make your transition into menopause easier.
