I’m too young for the menopause….
I’m too young for the menopause….
Most women experience menopause between the ages of 45 and 55, with the average age being around 51. Here’s a quick look at when menopause usually happens:
• Before age 40 – About 1% of women experience premature menopause (often due to Premature Ovarian Insufficiency, or POI)
• Between ages 40–45 – About 5% of women experience early menopause • Ages 45–55 – Most women experience menopause
• After age 55 – About 5–10% of women experience menopause later in life
When menopause happens before 40, it’s a sign something is off—and it may be due to Premature Ovarian Insufficiency (POI). Let’s take a look at what that means.
What Is Premature Ovarian Insufficiency? A simple guide
Premature Ovarian Insufficiency (POI) is when a woman’s ovaries stop working properly before the age of 40. The ovaries are responsible for releasing eggs and producing hormones like oestrogen, which help regulate your periods and protect your health in many ways.
In POI, the ovaries stop releasing eggs and don’t make as much oestrogen. This leads to symptoms like irregular periods, hot flushes, and fertility problems.
It’s important to note: POI isn’t the same as early menopause. With POI, the ovaries may still work now and then, and there’s still a small chance of getting pregnant naturally.
What Causes POI?
While the exact cause of POI isn’t always clear, several things can contribute to it:
• Genetic factors – It can run in families.
• Immune system problems – The body’s immune system may attack the ovaries.
• Cancer treatments – Chemotherapy or radiation can damage the ovaries.
• Surgery – Removing or damaging the ovaries during surgery.
• Unknown causes – In many cases, the exact cause isn’t known.
Signs and Symptoms of POI
If you’re under 40 and experience any of these signs, talk to your doctor:
• Irregular or missed periods
• Hot flushes or night sweats
• Trouble sleeping
• Mood swings or irritability
• Vaginal dryness or pain during sex
• Difficulty getting pregnant It’s easy to assume these symptoms are just stress or other things going on in life, but POI is often overlooked or misdiagnosed.
How Is POI Diagnosed?
Doctors use several tests to diagnose POI:
1. Blood tests to check hormone levels (oestrogen, FSH, etc.)
2. Ultrasound to look at the ovaries
3. Medical history review to understand symptoms and family background If your hormone levels suggest the ovaries aren’t working, your doctor may diagnose POI.
How Can POI Be Treated?
While there’s no cure for POI, several treatments can help:
1. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) Oestrogen replacement helps manage symptoms (like hot flashes) and protects your bones and heart. It’s typically recommended until about age 50.
2. Fertility Support Many women with POI turn to assisted reproductive technologies, like IVF using donor eggs. Some women may still get pregnant naturally.
3. Emotional Support POI can be emotionally tough, especially when it comes to fertility. Support groups or therapy can be helpful.
4. Healthy Lifestyle Exercise, eating well, and regular checkups are essential for your overall health, especially with POI.
Why Early Diagnosis Matters
Diagnosing POI early allows you to:
• Take steps to manage symptoms
• Protect your heart and bones
• Explore fertility options if that’s important to you The sooner it’s diagnosed, the sooner you can start caring for your health and planning for the future. Final Thoughts Premature Ovarian Insufficiency is not something most people talk about, but it affects many women. If you or someone you know is experiencing POI, remember: You are not alone. There are treatment options, support, and resources to help you live a healthy life. Helpful UK Resources Here are some UK-based resources for support and information on POI:
• Daisy Network www.daisynetwork.org A charity for women with POI since 1995
• The British Menopause Society (BMS) www.britishmenopausesociety.org The BMS offers information on menopause and related conditions, including POI. It also provides access to healthcare professionals for further support.
• Fertility Network UK www.fertilitynetworkuk.org A great resource for information and support, particularly around fertility and POI.
• NHS – Premature Ovarian Insufficiency www.nhs.uk The NHS provides reliable, straightforward information on POI, including its causes, symptoms, and treatment options.
• Menopause Matters www.menopausematters.co.uk An excellent resource for information on the menopause transition, including early menopause and POI. It includes advice on treatment options and lifestyle changes.