Menopause is an important natural event in a woman’s life at the time she will no longer be capable of pregnancy. Menopause in a normal healthy female typically develops between the late forties and early fifties. In some uncommon cases premature menopause can happen in females before they reach forty years of age. This is commonly referred to as premature ovarian failure, and is sometimes referred named premature ovarian insufficiency.
Premature menopause – See your doctor
Since premature menopause can take place during normal childbearing years, obtaining a proper diagnosis and pursuing proper treatment is very important in preserving a woman’s over-all degree of physical health. Since menopause is unusual in women younger than 40 years of age, premature menopause symptoms can be attributed to other underlying medical conditions such as an autoimmune or predisposed genetic disorder. Females around forty years of age which have increasingly irregular periods should consult with their physician right away. Premature menopause is typically uncommon but it is imperative for females to identify and diagnose this disorder in the early stages of development.
Early examination of symptoms
Early examination of premature menopause symptoms may involve a complete examination of your family history which will help identify pre-genetic vaginal disorders and forms of cancer. Additionally, blood testing is usually completed to verify hormone levels of estrogen, progesterone, and LH. This exam should indicate if the ovaries are functioning adequately and if the bodily hormone levels are sufficient. In the event the ovaries exhibit signs of failing further tests should be performed.
Estrogen and hormone therapy
Good news, there are treatment options available for females dealing with premature menopause and ovarian failure. Typically estrogen or HRT hormone replacement therapy is the most widely used and most popular premature menopause therapy option. Since the body’s levels of estrogen are dramatically decreased, supplements can also be taken to help relieve premature menopause symptoms and reduce associated risks of developing osteoporosis. Estrogen, if prescribed independently of progestin can increase the risk of developing uterine cancer. Estrogen hormone therapy is usually supplemented with progestin which helps lower the risk of uterine cancer. This can help strengthen the integrity of the cellular lining in the uterus. Progestin supplementation however is not needed for women who have had their uterus removed surgically. This type of treatment is generally not recommended If you have had a family history or self history of uterine cancer, heart disease, liver disease or other serious vaginal complications.
Pregnancy following a diagnosis of premature menopause
Fertility post diagnosis of premature menopause is rare but yet not impossible. The ovary is much more likely to recover in younger women. Approximately five to ten percent of women diagnosed with ovarian failure may still conceive on their own. There are no known effective treatments for inducing fertility in females currently diagnosed with premature menopause or ovarian failure. However, females are capable of carrying a pregnancy full term and doctors can use a donated oocyte to help increase chances of giving birth.
Natural based non hormonal therapy options
As an alternative your doctor may require you to engage in a non hormonal supplementation program. These supplements listed below are generally considered safe and have been shown to be very beneficial in reducing symptoms of menopause.
SSRI drugs – These may help with hot flashes and depression.
- Medroxyprogesterone and megestrol acetate – Similar to progesterone and may be used to reduce hot flashes and night sweats.
- Clonidine – This drug has been shown to help reduce hot flashes, night sweats and lower cholesterol. .
- Lubricants and Moisturizers – These can be found over the counter and aid in reducing vaginal dryness..
- Low-dose vaginal estrogen – Estrogen prescribed in a low enough dose can be a safer method then complete hormone therapy and has been shown to reduce many of the signs of premature menopause symptoms.
Gabapentin – Similar to clonidine
* To discover which hormone therapy treatment alternatives are best suited to your preferences, speak to your physician. *
Living a healthy lifestyle is very important for women during this specific time in their life. Exercise, nutrition and sleep can ease the symptoms of premature menopause and provide a better overall feeling of well being.