As a rule, menopause begins between the ages of 45 and 50. However, certain circumstances can also ensure that the hormonal changes begin earlier. We explain which 3 risk factors can trigger premature menopause.
The menopause describes the period before the menopause, i.e. the last menstrual period. The menopause is as individual as the woman herself, but it usually begins between the ages of 45 and 50. In rare cases, however, the hormonal changes can begin much earlier. Premature menopause occurs when the ovaries cease to function before the age of 40 – according to the German Menopause Society , around one percent of women are affected. The exact cause of premature menopause can often not be determined, but genetic factors play a role. Nevertheless, there are various risk factors that favor early menopause.
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Premature menopause: 3 risk factors
1. Smoking and alcohol consumption
Most people are aware that both smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are unhealthy and increase the risk of certain diseases. Nicotine damages our vessels and can, for example, impair the blood supply to the ovaries, which is why smokers experience menopause up to two years earlier on average. Excessive alcohol consumption can also have a negative effect.
Also interesting: Stop smoking without gaining weight >>
2. Unhealthy weight
An unhealthy weight is also one of the risk factors for premature menopause. And this not only means overweight, but also underweight, since both circumstances can have a negative effect on the hormone balance. In particular, being overweight with a high proportion of abdominal fat, also known as visceral fat, poses an increased risk. Apart from that, both overweight and underweight favor the development of various diseases.
Also interesting: Weight loss as a sign of disease >>
3. Various diseases
A risk factor that unfortunately cannot be influenced are various diseases. These include, for example, metabolic diseases such as diabetes, viral infections such as mumps, autoimmune diseases and genetic disorders such as Turner syndrome. In addition, chemotherapy or radiation used to treat cancer can promote the premature onset of menopause.
How do I recognize premature menopause?
You can recognize premature menopause by the same symptoms that can also occur during regular menopause. These include hot flashes, sleep disorders, mood swings, digestive problems and vaginal dryness. Find out more about the signs of menopause here >>
Important: Apart from factors that cannot be influenced, such as genetic causes or certain diseases, you can prevent premature menopause with a healthy lifestyle.
