How Early Can Menopause Start?

Menopause, marked by a year without periods, generally begins around age 40. Menopause can take several years and the transition period is called perimenopause. The average age of menopause is 51 years.

Although the timing of menopause differs from person to person, if you enter menopause earlier than usual, your doctor may diagnose you with premature or early menopause. Premature menopause occurs when you enter menopause before age 40, while early menopause occurs when you enter menopause between ages 40 and 45.

Perimenopause refers to the transition to menopause, but it overlaps with the first twelve months of menopause (after your last period ends). However, it is distinct from menopause, whether early, premature or at a typical time.

Early or premature menopause can occur naturally or as a result of medical treatment.

Medical interventions that can cause early or premature menopause include:

• Surgery to remove the ovaries or uterus
• Hormonal therapy
• Chemotherapy or radiotherapy to treat cancer

Other health problems or risk factors that can cause premature or early menopause include:

• Family history of early or premature menopause
• Smoking
• Thyroid disease, rheumatoid arthritis or other autoimmune diseases
• HIV or AIDS without proper treatment
• Missing or abnormal chromosomes
• Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS)

During the transition to menopause, your ovaries produce less estrogen and progesterone. This can lead to the symptoms you may experience. Each person experiences a different variety and severity of menopause symptoms.

As you enter menopause, you may notice that your periods become irregular, shorter or longer, and lighter or heavier than before. The complete absence of periods for a year is the hallmark of menopause. If you notice any of the following symptoms related to your period, contact your healthcare professional:

• Very close periods
• Heavy bleeding
• Bleeding or discharge between your periods or after sex
• Periods longer than a week
• Bleeding or spotting after missing your period for more than a year

Other signs of menopause you may experience include:

• Hot flashes or a feeling of heat in the face, neck and chest for 30 seconds to 10 minutes
• Difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep
• Vaginal dryness
• Pain or discomfort during sex (caused by vaginal dryness)
• Decreased libido or changes in how you view sex
• Bad mood, anxiety or irritability
• Difficulty controlling your bladder or leaking during exercise, sneezing, or laughing
• Urinary tract infections or urinary tract infections
• Changes in your weight or body composition
• Changes to your skin, joints or muscles
• Memory or concentration problems

Over time, you may notice that your body feels different or your doctor may tell you that you are at risk of developing new health problems. This could include:

• Reduced bone density, which can put you at risk for osteoporosis
• Higher cholesterol levels, which can lead to heart disease or stroke