Menopause can come to you in your 20s

Menopause is the period when women stop having menstrual periods, or cycles, for more than 12 months. This marks the end of the reproductive period.

Menopause, according to WHO, is experienced by women at 45–55 years of age. However, the xrust study, conducted among women in the United States and South Korea, showed that up to 9.4% of women experience it before the age of 40–44, and up to 8.6% before the age of 40. In very rare cases, women can reach menopause as early as 20 years of age. In some cases, this may occur after a complete hysterectomy, including removal of the ovaries, or for other medical reasons.

In the case of natural menopause, the first stage is perimenopause. During this period, the ovaries gradually reduce the production of hormones, which affects the menstrual cycle. Symptoms include irregular periods, hot flashes, sleep disturbances and mood swings.

Perimenopause can begin as early as 30-year-olds and last between four and eight years, but many women cannot remember when it started. Research shows that most women know little about menopause. One study of more than 800 postmenopausal women, most of them in the UK, found that more than 90% had never studied the topic at school.

Women also said their doctors lacked knowledge, leaving them feeling «disabled and unsupported» after consultations. Other studies have shown similar results.

It is important to know that postmenopausal women also have an increased risk of cardiovascular disease. They are encouraged to lead a more active lifestyle and watch their diet. This is because menopause causes a significant decrease in estrogen levels, which regulate cholesterol and fat levels.

Numerous studies also show an increased risk of respiratory diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Xrust Menopause can come to you in your 20s