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When does Menopause Start?
Menopause is a natural biological process that marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years. It typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55 and signals the end of monthly menstrual cycles. But every woman’s experience is different, making it difficult to give an exact answer as to when menopause begins.
Factors That Influence Age of Menopause
The age at which menopause starts can vary widely depending on the individual. The following are some of the factors that can influence when a woman begins to experience menopause:
- Family history: A woman’s family history can influence her age of menopause. If a woman’s mother or other close relatives went through menopause at an early age, it’s possible she will as well.
- Surgeries or procedures: Surgery or procedures that affect the ovaries–such as removal of one or both–can induce menopause earlier than normal.
- Smoking: Smoking is linked to accelerated ovary aging and can initiate menopause earlier than normal.
- Certain medical treatments: Certain treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation, can cause a sudden menopausal transition, known as chemotherapy-induced menopause.
Symptoms of Menopause
With menopause, hormones like estrogen and progesterone start to decline, and this can lead to physical and emotional symptoms. Common signs of menopause include:
- Hot flashes
- Night sweats
- Vaginal dryness
- Mood swings
- Fatigue
- Weight gain
When to Seek Help for Menopause Symptoms
If a woman is concerned about menopausal symptoms, she should speak to her doctor. The doctor can discuss treatment options that can help manage any unpleasant symptoms.
Keywords:
Menopause, Age of Menopause, Family History, Menopause Symptoms, Hot Flashes, Night Sweats, Vaginal Dryness, Mood Swings, Fatigue, Weight Gain, Treatment Options.
