For some women, the transition comes early–and sometimes abruptly. Here’s what you need to know.
Menopause is mainstream news these days, which is great. But the focus tends to be on women who hit the milestone during midlife, around the average age or 51 or so, which leaves women who come into menopause early, either naturally or by medical causes like surgery wondering if all the advice they’re reading applies to them. The answer is mostly, but there are strategies for managing these types of menopause that are unique.
First, let’s clear up some confusion. “Early menopause” (total cessation of periods before the age of 45) or “premature menopause” (total cessation of periods before the age of 40) are terms that are often used interchangeably, though the age difference is certainly meaningful for the women’s life experience. Menopause brought on by surgeries, chemotherapy or other drug treatments is often included under the umbrella or early/premature menopause, but for this blog I’d like to consider those separately, especially since these can happen at any age.
