1. Be Alert for Signs Before Age 40
On average, women reach menopause around the age of 50 or 51. You are considered menopausal when you have not had a menstrual period for 12 consecutive months. Long before your periods stop, though, your body undergoes slow, gradual changes for several years. But if you stop menstruating before you blow out 40 birthday candles, this is considered premature menopause. Early menopause can result from autoimmune conditions, such as low thyroid, Grave's disease or lupus. Genetics also play a role. If your mother or sister reached menopause before 40, your chances of the same experience increase. Early menopause also may be due to chemotherapy, radiation or surgical removal of the ovaries.
2. Know What to Look For
The signs of early menopause are the same as those signaling natural menopause: skipped periods, longer or shorter menstrual cycles, lighter or heavier menstrual flow, hot flashes, mood changes and heart palpitations. You may have trouble sleeping, notice a drop in your sex drive or have vaginal dryness that makes intercourse uncomfortable. Problems with leaking urine or difficulty controlling the urge to urinate can happen when bladder muscles weaken at menopause.
3. Chart Your Cycle and Symptoms
You may not have written down the dates of your period since you were in high school, but if you suspect that you're experiencing premature menopause, get in the habit again. Note the first day of your period on a calendar and document changes, such as heavier or lighter flow. Give details about nights spent tossing and turning or waking up with hot flashes or night sweats. Jot it down if you feel uncommonly teary or irritable or, as often happens, your spouse or friends point out that you seem very edgy or blue. Keep this record for three cycles and share this information with your doctor.
4. Know that Perimenopause is Different from Menopause
Just as your body prepared for puberty for a year or two before you had your first period, your body goes through perimenopause before you stop menstruating altogether. Perimenopause symptoms are very similar to menopause symptoms, with changes in menstrual cycle, mood and libido. Perimenopause and premature menopause are not the same thing, however. Unless your periods stop before you are 40, you are not considered to have premature menopause.
