What is early menopause?
Menopause is the state in which the ovaries lose their function.
In healthy women, it usually occurs between the ages of 45 and 52.
However, menopause before the age of 40, or early menopause, leads to hormonal and cyclical changes due to a sudden drop in estrogen levels.
Early menopause is considered more of a reproductive health issue than a natural process. It can pose a risk of infertility, especially for women over 30 who plan to become mothers.
What Causes Early Menopause?
The causes of early menopause can be very diverse.
Both genetic factors and environmental influences play a significant role.
The main causes of early menopause are:
- Genetic predisposition: Women with a family history of early menopause are at higher risk.
- Surgical interventions: Following removal of the ovaries or pelvic region surgeries.
- Cancer treatments: Chemotherapy and radiotherapy can damage egg cells.
- Chromosomal disorders: Particularly Turner syndrome.
- Lifestyle factors: Excessive smoking, alcohol consumption, poor nutrition, and stress.
All these factors can reduce egg reserve and trigger early menopause.
What are the symptoms of early menopause?
Early menopause usually begins with menstrual irregularities. Initially, the intervals between periods shorten, then the cycles become less frequent and the amount of bleeding decreases.
In the final stage, menstruation stops completely.
Other common symptoms include:
- Vaginal dryness
- Excessive sweating and hot flashes
- Weight gain
- Sexual aversion
- Sleep disorders
- Mood swings (anxiety, depression)
These symptoms occur due to a decrease in the hormone estrogen.
How is early menopause diagnosed?
Early menopause is diagnosed through blood tests and ultrasound
. Hormone tests performed on the 3rd day of menstruation examine the following parameters:
- AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone): Indicates egg reserve.
- FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone): High levels indicate loss of ovarian function.
- Estradiol: Low levels indicate estrogen deficiency.
The number of follicles is also assessed using ultrasound. A lower-than-expected number of follicles for the patient’s age confirms the onset of menopause.
Is Early Menopause Treatable?
Unfortunately, early menopause is not a completely reversible condition.
However, early diagnosis can slow the onset of menopause and allow for reproductive health planning.
In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) Treatment
This is one of the most effective options for women planning to become mothers.
The remaining eggs can be fertilized in a laboratory setting, increasing the chances of pregnancy.
Egg Freezing
This is recommended for women who are not yet planning to have children but intend to do so in the future.
Eggs can be frozen during the pre-menopausal period for future use.
Hormone Therapy (HRT)
It is used to alleviate symptoms caused by estrogen deficiency and to protect bone and heart health.
It may last approximately 3-5 years and should be done under the supervision of a doctor.
Can early menopause be prevented?
While early menopause cannot always be prevented, the process can be delayed with early diagnosis and regular monitoring.
Regular gynecological checkups, hormone tests, and healthy lifestyle habits (nutrition, exercise, stress management) play an important role.
Remember: In Turkey, 3 out of every 100 women experience early menopause.
This can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, and stroke.
Early diagnosis is critical in reducing these risks.
At what ages does early menopause occur?
- Normal menopausal age: between 45 and 52 years old.
- Early menopause: Before the age of 40.
- Premature menopause: under age 35
If you notice any irregularities in your menstrual cycle, long intervals between periods, or a complete cessation of menstruation, you should consult a gynecologist without delay.
What happens if early menopause is left untreated?
Untreated early menopause can lead to a number of health problems due to estrogen deficiency:
- Bone loss (osteoporosis)
- Cardiovascular diseases
- Depression and sleep disorders
- Vaginal dryness and lack of sexual desire
Therefore, hormone monitoring and reproductive health counseling should not be neglected when early menopausal symptoms appear.
FertiJin Women’s Health and Early Menopause Management
FertiJin Women’s Health and IVF Center, located in Istanbul, offers personalized treatment plans specifically designed for women experiencing early menopause and low egg reserve.
Thanks to its expert staff:
- The progression of early menopause can be slowed down.
- In-vitro fertilization (IVF) or egg freezing can be planned.
- The chances of pregnancy can be increased.
📍 FertiJin IVF Center – Şişli / Istanbul