Premature Menopause: Are You Going Through It Now?

If you're in your early thirties, you might not expect to go through menopause at such an early age. But if you currently experience problems that mimic the symptoms of menopause, speak to a women's healthcare doctor today. Premature menopause may be the reason for your strange symptoms. Learn more about premature menopause and how you can manage it below.

How Does Menopause Occur Early in Women?

Most women experience hot flashes, exhaustion, and other symptoms of menopause some time after 45 years of age. Other women may experience early menopause as well. Early menopause generally shows up between the ages of 41 and 45. However, a small number of women can prematurely experience the first symptoms of menopause before they turn 40 years old.

It isn't completely clear why some women develop premature menopause and other women don't. However, genetics, tobacco usage, and autoimmune conditions may be possible reasons why some women experience menopause at a younger age. For instance, if other women in your family experience the symptoms of menopause in their early thirties, you may experience symptoms in your thirties as well. 

If you think your symptoms are due to premature menopause, consult a women's doctor soon.

Can You Manage Your Symptoms Properly?

A doctor needs to examine you carefully before they diagnose you with premature menopause. Some women's health conditions can mimic menopause, including hypothyroidism and lupus. You want to be sure premature menopause caused your symptoms and not something else. 

A women's doctor will perform a number of tests on you to confirm your symptoms, including hormone tests and urinalysis tests. Your body releases hormones into your blood and urine during the day. Menopause can cause a steep decline in your hormones over time. If your hormones are low, the hormone levels in your urine and blood will be low as well. 

A physician will also ask you about your sleep patterns, lifestyle habits, and eating habits. Menopause can keep you up at night or make it difficult to eat meals. Menopause can also affect your social and sexual lives. If you struggle to do any of the things above, a physician needs to know about it.

If premature menopause is the cause of your symptoms, a doctor will regulate your hormones with medications, lifestyle changes, and other treatments. The treatments will change as your situation progresses.

Learn more about premature menopause and how it affects you by contacting a women's healthcare doctor today.