Do any women go through menopause at an abnormally young age?

Hi Carrie Margaret Allen!

Thank you for your question about early menopause. While in the U.S., the average age for menopause is 51, women have reported having menopause in their 30's. Menopause that occurs before the typical 40-50's, whether natural or induced, is known as "premature" menopause. Some symptoms include:

-Irregular or missed periods

-Periods that are heavier or lighter than usual

-Hot flashes (a sudden feeling of warmth that spreads over the upper body)

Additional symptoms women have reported are:

-Vaginal dryness (the vagina may also become thinner and less flexible)

-Bladder irritability and worsening of loss of bladder control (incontinence)

-Emotional changes (irritability, mood swings, mild depression)

-Dry skin, eyes, or mouth

-Sleeplessness

-Decreased sex drive

If you are showing signs of premature menopause, your doctor can perform a blood test that measures follicle stimulating hormone (FSH). If your FSH level is above 40 mlU/mL, it can be an indication of menopause.

Here is an article about risk factors for early menopause from the EmpowHER community.

https://www.empowher.com/media/reference/risk-factors-premature-menopause

Did this help Carrie Margaret Allen?

Best,

Kristin