Premature Menopause: What It Is and What to Do

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Premature Menopause: What It Is and What to Do

Wednesday, October 21st, 2009 Subscribe To Our Feed

It is not uncommon for some women to begin noticing symptoms of menopause in their 30s, and this early onset, because unexpected, can sometimes produce feelings of anxiousness and/or depression. Most women are very concerned about the effects of premature menopause and want to know what to expect.

Menopause is not just something that happens to older women. Younger women can experience premature menopause at a much younger than normal age. When a woman under the age of 40 experiences menopause symptoms, it is known as premature menopause. Just imagine the emotional impact that premature menopause can have on a woman of this age. It can be devastating to experience menopause prematurely, as it can be more difficult emotionally than merely dealing with the physical symptoms of this phase.

Premature ovarian failure, when your body’s immune system attacks itself and causes the ovaries to stop functioning, can be one cause of premature menopause. Surgery can also cause early menopause. For instance, menopause can occur immediately as a result of ovarian surgery or a hysterectomy, both of which cause hormone levels to drop dramatically. When you have a hysterectomy, even if the ovaries are not removed, they may be damaged by the procedure or have their blood supply affected, then falter and cause premature symptoms of menopause.

Having your tubes tied is another factor that might contribute to experiencing early menopause. Weight loss, particuarly that resulting from anorexia, can also cause this condition. As well, your mother’s age at the onset of menopause can be a direct indicator of what you can expect. Before you decide that your symptoms indicate menopause, however, consult your doctor for an accurate diagnosis.

Early onset menopause, caused by low levels of estrogen, brings with it the following symptoms: hot flashes, night sweats, painful joints, decreased desire, internal dryness, skin changes, and changes in sleep patterns. Menopausal symptoms are typically less severe in women who go through the change of life at a more typical age than for women who experience premature menopause.

It is hard to go through menopause at an early age, so you may find it helpful to find and join a support group to help you through this hard time. The passing of childbearing age can be emotionally traumatic, and it is important to take the time to understand and perhaps mourn this loss. Support from friends and family is so very important during this time.

And don’t forget to allow yourself sufficient time to understand and deal with the emotional issues of premature menopause. Be open and honest in expressing your thoughts and feelings. The thing to remember is that it is a natural part of aging; no-one is to blame. There is no sense in adding guilt to the complex emotions you may be feeling at this time, as it will make you feel worse, not better, and to no purpose. While you’re experiencing this phase of life, be kind to yourself and allow yourself the time to mourn, because it will be easier to do this first, and then discuss alternatives available to you afterward.

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