11 reasons that contribute to the early onset of menopause
Menopause is a natural stage in every woman’s life. However, no one wants to face it prematurely. To avoid this, together with Eliso Jobava, professor, doctor of medical sciences, obstetrician-gynecologist of the highest category, medical director of the network of clinics & laquo; Credo-Experto” and brand specialist & laquo; Lignarius” , let’s look at the key factors that can accelerate the onset of menopause.
Contents of the article:
Definition of menopause and period of its onset
Menopause, more correctly called menopause, is the final stage of ovarian activity, manifested by the cessation of menstruation. This physiological process is irreversible and inevitable. For a woman, it means the loss of the ability to become pregnant on her own, the cessation of the menstrual cycle and a significant decrease in the level of estrogen – the key hormones responsible for youth and health of the body. During menopause, the concentration of female sex hormones gradually decreases, including first progesterone, then estrogens, as well as testosterone and growth hormone.
Traditionally, menopausal age is considered to be between 45–55 years. However, recent data indicate a trend towards “rejuvenation” menopause. The starting point is considered to be the absence of menstruation for a year.
Symptoms and signs of approaching menopause
There are so-called “harbingers” menopause, as well as manifestations characteristic of the early and late stages of the transition period. They are identified based on patient complaints and the results of medical examinations, which are classified according to the STRAW+10 system, which describes the stages of reproductive aging. In particular, there are early and late periods of premenopause (before menopause), as well as early and late periods of postmenopause (after its onset). The first signs of the transitional stage (stage “-2”) appear several years before the final stop of the menstrual cycle and include shortening, disruption and shifts in the menstrual cycle.
Late symptoms that occur as menopause progresses are listed in chronological order and include: dry skin, loss of elasticity and sagging, sudden mood swings, development of anxiety, depression, memory impairment, increased blood pressure, hot flashes, discomfort during sexual intercourse, urinary incontinence, prolapse of the walls of the vagina and uterus, weakening of bone tissue, deterioration of ligaments and joints, disorders blood circulation in the brain and heart, as well as changes in posture.
In addition to the symptoms listed, it is important to note that during the premenopausal and menopausal periods, changes in metabolism may occur, leading to weight gain and changes in distribution fatty tissue, which increases the risk of developing metabolic diseases. Women may also experience decreased quality of sleep, which worsens fatigue and decreased concentration. Often appear headaches and exacerbation of chronic diseases associated with hormonal imbalance.
For timely detection and correction of menopause symptoms, regular medical examination is recommended, including monitoring of hormonal levels, the state of the cardiovascular system, bone tissue and psycho-emotional health. A comprehensive approach to treatment may include hormone replacement therapy, physical therapy, lifestyle changes, diet and physical activity, which helps alleviate symptoms and improve the quality of life of women during this period.
11 reasons that accelerate the onset of menopause
- Chronic stress. They contribute to the development of “ovarian wasting syndrome,” which leads to an earlier onset of menopause.
- Sleep problems. Lack of rest at night, falling asleep late, jet lag or night shifts reduce levels of melatonin, a key sleep hormone that regulates ovarian function.
- Water violations balance insufficient or improper drinking regime provokes the deposition of fatty deposits, lymph stagnation, accumulation of toxins and intestinal malfunctions, which negatively affects the ovaries.
- Overweight. Obesity is becoming one of the main factors contributing to the approach of menopause due to the resulting insulin resistance.
- Underweight. Lack of body weight leads to a deficiency of estrogen, most of which is produced from testosterone in adipose tissue.
- An unbalanced diet and strict diets. They place significant stress on the body and can cause metabolic disorders.
- Lack of physical activity. A sedentary lifestyle contributes to weight gain and increases the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, osteoporosis, and cancer.
- Excessive physical activity and intense exercise. These negatively impact heart function; it is considered optimal to exercise no more than an hour a day smoking, excessive alcohol, and coffee consumption have a destructive effect on hormonal balance, accelerating the onset of menopause and premature aging.
- Deficiency of essential minerals and
- vitamins. A deficiency of micro- and macronutrients negatively impacts the functioning of the neuroendocrine system. Calcium, potassium, magnesium, selenium, phosphorus, zinc, iodine, as well as vitamins A, E, D, and B vitamins are especially important Lack of inner harmony, dissatisfaction with life, and a lack of happiness are common. Our modern lifestyle contributes to the prevalence of this phenomenon. Reassessing your life goals and finding new goals, finding help from literature, participating in trainings, and connecting with like-minded people can help you cope with emotional loneliness and resolve internal conflicts how to behave when menopause symptoms appear or after they have already begun On the one hand, menopause is a natural age-related stage that every woman experiences. On the other hand, you don’t want to feel like you’re aging in your 40s or 50s menopause can pose a serious health threat due to its early and late complications, so it’s crucial to consult a gynecologist promptly. A specialist will monitor you throughout menopause, conduct the necessary examinations, and prescribe the appropriate treatment, which should include several areas:
- Phytoestrogens (lignans), which replenish estrogen deficiency and are a safe, non-hormonal alternative for correcting early menopause symptoms; these medications are available over-the-counter;
Peptide agents;
Menopause hormone therapy (including estrogens, progesterone, testosterone, and other medications);
Dietary supplements, which help maintain youth and attractiveness.
- In addition, it is important to pay attention to lifestyle during menopause. Regular physical activity helps maintain muscle tone, improves mood and reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease. It is recommended to pay attention to a balanced diet with sufficient amounts of calcium and vitamin D, which helps preserve bone tissue and prevent osteoporosis.
- It is useful to practice relaxing techniques – yoga, breathing
- exercises
- and meditation, which help manage stress, improve sleep quality and reduce the emotional symptoms of menopause, such as anxiety and irritability.
You should give up bad habits such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, as they can aggravate symptoms and negatively affect your overall health.
It is also recommended to undergo regular medical examinations – not only from a gynecologist, but also from a therapist and endocrinologist, in order to promptly identify possible concomitant diseases and adjust treatment It is very important to maintain social connections and not isolate yourself – communication with loved ones and friends helps maintain a positive attitude and quality of life during this period 11 reasons that contribute to the early onset of menopause
