Premature Menopause And Possible Risk Factors
Menopause is defined as the stage when a woman stops menstruating and can no longer get pregnant. It is a series of hormonal changes that often occur between the ages of 45 and 55. However, there are many factors that can alter the normal female reproductive cycle causing the so-called premature menopause.
We talk about premature menopause when the irregularities of the menstrual cycle occur before the age of 40.
Due to the important changes it produces, it is associated with an increased risk of certain chronic diseases, emotional disorders and a number of other symptoms that can reduce a woman’s quality of life.
Although it can be caused by a genetic disorder, in many cases it is the result of the impact of certain factors on hormonal activity. Discover them!
Risk factors for early menopause
1. Tobacco
Women who smoke, or who are exposed to smoke, are more likely to have an early menopause than those who don’t.
Cigarette smoke contains chemicals that cause problems in the ovaries and embryos and an increase in chromosomal abnormalities.
These consequences alter the activity of estrogen and progesterone, anticipating the arrival of menopause.
2. Thyroid disorders
The thyroid is involved in many life processes in the body. Among other things, it is essential for hormones to be secreted and distributed properly.
For this reason, when the thyroid is not working well, the risk of premature menopause or reproductive health problems increases.
Diseases such as hypothyroidism can cause early menopausal symptoms, such as lack of menstruation, mood swings and hot flashes.
3. Surgical interventions
Women who undergo certain surgeries are at a greater risk of entering menopause prematurely.
Removing an ovary or uterus lowers estrogen and progesterone levels in the body, hastening the end of the fertile phase.
Removal of both ovaries causes immediate menopause. Symptom that can also occur as a side effect of cervical cancer removal or pelvic surgery.
4. Radiotherapy and chemotherapy
These two cancer treatments can cause premature menopause. Because they hinder cell growth, they can destroy some healthy cells, in many cases eliminating the activity of the ovaries.
5. Processed meats
Among the many side effects of consuming processed meats, it is also important to remember early menopause.
While they are very attractive, they contain large amounts of chemicals called nitrates and nitrites, which can lead to hormonal imbalances.
They have also been shown to impair metabolic health, causing menopause to accelerate.
6. Autoimmune diseases
Autoimmune diseases are characterized by an abnormality in the production and use of antibodies that causes a “self-attack” of healthy tissues.
Their appearance has a negative impact on the health of the ovaries and interferes with the activity of estrogen receptors.
This leads to a number of reproductive health disorders in women and often to premature menopause.
Some of these conditions are:
- Vitiligo
- Anemia
- Lupus
- Sjögren’s syndrome
- Chronic hepatitis
- Rheumatoid arthritis
7. Cosmetics and hygiene products
Work is underway to prevent the use of harmful components in cosmetics and hygiene products. Their constant absorption or inhalation could cause thyroid disorders and hormonal diseases.
Shampoos, scented soaps, and some cosmetics contain substances known as phthalates, which cause premature menopause. They are also found in body fragrances, hair gels and fabric softeners.
Are you worried about the effects of menopause? In order to reduce the risks, it is advisable to maintain a healthy lifestyle and have regular medical checks.
