Menopause affects all women, usually between 45 and 55 years old. It is a necessary passage, marked by the cessation of menstruation and the cessation of ovulation .

But for 1 in 100 women, menopause occurs before age 40. We then speak of early menopause (or premature ovarian failure - IOP), a pathology that triggers the cessation of the functioning of the ovary.

What are the causes of early menopause?

The causes are many and differ from one patient to another: chemotherapy, radiotherapy , autoimmune disease or endocrine dysfunction.

It can also be caused by viral infections (chicken pox, rubella, mumps ...) , or due to anorexia nervosa or smoking. But in 85% of cases, its origin remains unknown.

This disease can have many consequences, starting with difficulties to conceive. Early menopause effectively deprives women of ovarian secretions, which greatly affects fertility .

But this is not the only problem related to this pathology, which also increases the risk of cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis .

Finally, we must not neglect the emotional and psychological impact that this pathology can cause. Mood disorders, sleep disorders, eating disorders, depression ... These are all problems that can arise from early menopause.

Early menopause: symptoms

The first symptom of early menopause is the absence of menstruation or irregular cycles , although these signs may go unnoticed by people taking the pill .

There is also the appearance of hot flashes , one of the most common symptoms of this pathology.

If in doubt, do not hesitate to discuss with a gynecologist, who will confirm (or not) his diagnosis through a hormonal assessment that controls the levels of FSH ( follicle stimulating hormone) and luteinizing hormone ( LH) ) .

If they are high, they then mark the state of menopause.

How to treat early menopause?

To each problem, its treatment. On the other hand, if one wishes to become pregnant, the estrogens must be provided by a hormone replacement treatment, which must continue from the diagnosis until the physiological age of the menopause, about 50 years.  

In addition, an assessment of the bone condition ( osteometry ) is carried out, in order to possibly prescribe an anti-osteoporosis treatment, as well as vitamin D supplements, which will promote the absorption of calcium by the bones.

Some women prefer to use soft medicine techniques, such as homeopathy or phytoestrogens (found in soy and flax) .  

Of course, for the treatment to be as effective as possible, a healthy lifestyle is recommended: diet rich in calcium and vitamin D, stopping smoking and exercise.

Finally, a psychological follow-up may be recommended in certain cases, this transition being, and it is normal, difficult to live.