Many women notice a pattern in their family when their mothers, aunties, or grandmothers stop menstruating earlier than usual and begin to wonder, “Could this happen to me too?”
The short answer is yes, genetics can play a big role in determining when menopause begins. But it’s not the only factor.
What Is Early Menopause?
Menopause usually happens between the ages of 45 and 55, with the average age around 51. When it occurs before age 45, it’s considered early menopause, and before age 40, it’s called premature menopause.
In both cases, the ovaries stop producing enough estrogen, leading to irregular or absent periods and symptoms like hot flashes, mood changes, and sleep issues.
Is Early Menopause Hereditary?
Other Contributing Factors for Early Menopause
Genes are just one piece of the puzzle; early menopause can also result from:
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Smoking, which is known to damage ovarian cells
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Warning Signs to Watch For in Early Menopause
If you’re in your 30s or early 40s and notice any of these changes, it’s worth checking with your doctor:
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Irregular or skipped periods
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Vaginal dryness or pain during sex
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Mood changes or trouble sleeping
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Unexplained fatigue or low libido
Testing hormone levels (like FSH, LH, and estrogen) can help confirm whether menopause is starting early.
How to Prepare or Manage for Early Menopause
If you suspect you might have early menopause due to family history, here’s what you can do:
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Track your cycle as irregular periods may signal early hormonal shifts.
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Talk to your doctor early and ask about testing if symptoms appear.
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Pay attention to your bone and heart health, as lower estrogen can increase the risk of osteoporosis and heart disease.
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Consider hormone therapy (if suitable) to manage symptoms and protect long-term health.
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Eat well by choosing meals rich in calcium, vitamin D, and omega-3s to help protect your bones, and exercise regularly.
Takeaway
Early menopause can indeed run in families, but genes don’t tell the whole story, as lifestyle, environment, and medical factors all play a role.
If your mother or sister experienced early menopause, it’s wise to be proactive, monitor your cycle, get tested if you notice symptoms, and maintain healthy habits to support your hormones.
Have you or someone in your family experienced early menopause?
Researched by Mercy Adeniyi.
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