Menopause is a natural process in the life of women. But a few women begin menopause at an age earlier than 40. This is called premature menopause or premature ovarian failure.
No two women have the same symptoms for menopause. Find out what works for managing the menopause symptoms
What causes menopause
Menopause is a natural change that occurs in women during their 40s or early 50s. In Asian women, menopause usually occurs between the ages of 49-53. It happens when the ovaries stop functioning. The primary function of the ovaries is:
- To release the ova (egg) monthly
- To release hormones like oestrogen and progesterone that make preparatory changes in the uterine wall if the woman conceives
- For subsequent shedding of theuterine wall or lining if she does not conceive.
As women age, the ovaries stop releasing the ova and hormones are released at a lower level. This causes the periods to become irregular and then stop.
Are you at risk of premature menopause:
Menopause is a natural process in the life of women. But a few women begin menopause at an age earlier than 40. This is called premature menopause or premature ovarian failure. The following are at risk for premature menopause:
- Women who had hysterectomy, ie, removal of uterus
- Women whose ovary/ovaries were removed due to cervical cancer
- Chemotherapy and radiation
- Genetic factors
- Epilepsy / fits
- Positive family history ie, if any of the family members had premature menopause
- Smoking
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