- Irregular/missed periods
- Heavy or light flow of periods
- Spotting
- Hot flashes
Other than these most common symptoms, below are some other symptoms that vary with every women.
- Vaginal Dryness
- Breast pain, headaches, joint pains
- Osteoporosis
- Loss of bladder control
- Emotional dishevels (depression, anxiety, mood swings and irritability)
- Lack of sleep and night sweats
- Dry mouth, skin and eyes
- Allergic reaction
- Hair loss, weight gain, bloating
- Heart palpitations, more facial hair, weak nails
- Loss of libido and uncomfortable sex
These symptoms are experienced by women who are undergoing menopause. But if you have these symptoms, even before you are 40, visit a gynaecologist. Your doctor will be able to confirm if the symptoms indicate premature menopause or any other disease.
- Lifestyle factors – Clinical studies have shown that women who are heavy smokers, have a low BMI level and vegetarians with lack of exercise, it can result in the onset of early menopause.
- Autoimmune diseases – Thyroid or rheumatoid arthritis are some autoimmune diseases that cause ovary inflammation resulting in early menopause.
- Epilepsy – Epileptic seizures cause premature ovarian failure leading to early menopause.
- Chemotherapy and Hysterectomy – Chemotherapy, radiation or hysterectomy can result in premature menopause.
- Genetics – If none of the above factors seem to affect your menopause cycle, then the most reliable cause would be genetics. Ask your mother if she had an early menopause. You might have just derived that trait from her.
Diagnosis of Early Menopause
If you experience any of the symptoms related to menopause at an early age, visiting a doctor would be the best option to confirm.
Alternatively, the level of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in blood also determines if a woman is having menopause. If the FSH levels read above 40 mIU/ml, menopause is confirmed.
- HRT (Hormone Replacement Therapy) – Hormone therapies are usually helpful in preventing menopausal symptoms.
- MHT (Menopausal hormone therapy) – This therapy involves treating menopausal symptoms with oestrogen and progesterone supplements.
When you start experiencing menopausal symptoms that are way too uncomfortable, pay a visit to the gynaecologist and discuss matters. Your doctor might also give you medications if required.