How to Deal With Premature Menopause?
What is Premature Menopause?
Menopause that happens before age 40 is called premature menopause. Menopause that happens between 40 and 45 is called early menopause. About 5% of women naturally go through early menopause. Smoking and certain medicines or treatments can cause menopause to come earlier than usual.
The Difference Between Early & Premature Menopause?
- Early or premature menopause happens when ovaries stop making hormones and periods stop at a younger age than usual (the average age of menopause in the United States is 52).
- This can happen naturally or for a medical reason, such as when both ovaries are removed in a hysterectomy.
- Early and premature menopause can have the same causes. The only difference is the age at which it happens.
- Menopause that happens before age 45 is called early menopause.
- Menopause that happens before age 40 is called premature menopause.
Symptoms:
In the months or years leading up to menopause (perimenopause), you might experience these signs and symptoms:
- Irregular periods.
- Vaginal dryness.
- Hot flashes.
- Chills.
- Night Sweats.
- Sleep problems.
- Mood changes.
- Weight gain and slowed metabolism.
- Thinning hair and dry skin.
- Loss of breast fullness.
Symptoms, including changes in menstruation, are different for every woman. Most likely, you will experience some irregularity in your periods before the end.
Causes:
The general causes of Premature Menopause are listed below:
Premature ovarian insufficiency is also related to chromosomal or genetic conditions such as Turner syndrome, Swyer syndrome, and androgen insensitivity syndrome (AIS).
- Enzyme defects: Galactosemia and thalassemia, two rare genetic diseases, can impact the functioning of the ovaries.
- Other causes: Abnormal gonadotropin (FSH and LH) secretion and autoimmune diseases may also be connected to POF.
Other diseases related to POF and, therefore, early menopause:
- Thyroid dysfunction.
- Certain viral infections, like mumps.
- Diabetes.
- Vitiligo.
- Lupus.
- Anemia.
- The polyglandular failure I and II.
- Hypoparathyroidism.
- Idiopathic thrombocytopenia purpura (ITP).
- Adrenal insufficiency (Addison’s disease).
Medical causes of Premature menopause:
Early menopause as a consequence of medical interventions is referred to as induced menopause.
- Tubal ligation.
- Hysterectomy.
- Chemotherapy or radiation therapy.
Other Causes of Early Menopause:
- Stress.
- Smoking.
What are The Effects of Premature Menopause?
Women who go through menopause early may have symptoms or health problems similar to those of regular menopause.
But some women with early or premature menopause may also have:
A. Higher Risk of Serious Health Problems:
Such as heart disease and osteoporosis, since women will live longer without the health benefits of higher estrogen levels. Talk to your doctor or nurse about steps to lower your risk for these health problems.
B. More Severe Menopause Symptoms:
Talk to your doctor or nurse about treatments to help with symptoms if they affect your daily life.
C. Sadness or Depression Over The Early Loss of Fertility or The Change in Their Bodies:
Talk to your doctor if you have symptoms of depression, including less energy or a lack of interest in things you once enjoyed that lasts longer than a few weeks. Your doctor or nurse can recommend specialists who can help you deal with your feelings.
Treatment:
Menopause requires no medical treatment. Instead, treatments focus on relieving your signs and symptoms and preventing or managing chronic conditions that may occur with aging.
Treatments May Include:
1. Hormone Therapy:
Estrogen therapy is the most effective treatment option for relieving menopausal hot flashes. Depending on your personal and family medical history, your doctor may recommend estrogen in the lowest dose and the shortest time frame needed to provide symptom relief for you.
If you still have your uterus, you’ll need progestin in addition to estrogen. Estrogen also helps prevent bone loss.
2. Vaginal Estrogen:
To relieve vaginal dryness, estrogen can be administered directly to the vagina using a vaginal cream, tablet or ring. This treatment releases just a small amount of estrogen, which is absorbed by the vaginal tissues. It can help relieve vaginal dryness, discomfort with intercourse and some urinary symptoms.
3. Low-Dose Antidepressants:
Certain antidepressants related to the class of drugs called selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may decrease menopausal hot flashes. A low-dose antidepressant for management of hot flashes may be useful for women who can’t take estrogen for health reasons or for women who need an antidepressant for a mood disorder.
4. Gabapentin (Neurontin, Gralise):
Gabapentin is approved to treat seizures, but it has also been shown to help reduce hot flashes. This drug is useful for women who can’t use estrogen therapy and in those who also have nighttime hot flashes.
5. Clonidine (Catapres, Kapvay):
Clonidine, a pill or patch typically used to treat high blood pressure, might provide some relief from hot flashes.
6. Medications to Prevent or Treat Osteoporosis:
Depending on individual needs, doctors may recommend medication to prevent or treat osteoporosis. Several medications are available that help reduces bone loss and risk of fractures. Your doctor might prescribe vitamin D supplements to help strengthen bones.
Related Topics:
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Disclaimer: “Nothing in this article makes any claim to offer cures or treatment of any disease or illness. If you are sick please consult with your doctor.”
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