Early Menopause & Premature Menopause

The transition into menopause usually occurs between the ages of 45 and 55. Yet, in some cases, menopause can occur before the age of 40, and this is known as premature menopause or early menopause. There are a variety of reasons that can cause your body to enter an early menopause, read on to learn about these.

What Causes Premature Menopause?

• Ovarian failure - If a woman's ovaries stop producing normal levels of certain hormones, particularly oestrogen, then early menopause can naturally occur. This condition is also referred to as primary ovarian insufficiency, and its cause is often unknown. However for some women, it can be caused by; chromosome abnormalities; autoimmune disease; or infections such as malaria and mumps. The condition can also run in families.
• Cancer treatment - Radiotherapy or chemotherapy can cause temporary or permanent premature ovarian failure.
• Surgery - The removal of the ovaries will cause early menopause.

Early Menopause Symptoms - What are the Symptoms of Premature Menopause?

The symptoms that you may experience with early menopause are extremely similar to regular menopausal symptoms. However, the main indication of premature menopause is an infrequency in periods, or a complete halt in periods altogether without any other reason (such as pregnancy).

Typical early menopausal symptoms include:

• Night sweats
• Difficulty sleeping
• Hot flushes
• Low sex drive
• Vaginal dryness
• Discomfort during sex

Early Menopause Treatment: Pelvic Floor Health, Symptoms & Support Solutions

Treating early menopause often involves a combination of medical support, such as hormone replacement therapy (HRT), alongside lifestyle changes to manage symptoms and protect long-term health. Declining oestrogen levels can also weaken the pelvic floor, increasing the risk of bladder leaks, dryness, and reduced muscle tone. That’s why targeted pelvic floor exercises are essential during this stage. Kegel8 can help by providing clinically designed pelvic floor trainers and guided programmes to strengthen muscles in early menopause, improve bladder control, and support overall intimate health during early menopause.

Sources

NHS (2021) Early Menopause [online]. NHS [viewed 03/10/2024]. Available from https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/early-or-premature-menopause/