Menopause in Your 20s or 30s? It's More Common Than You Think.

When you hear the word "menopause," you probably picture a woman in her 50s. While the average age for menopause (defined as 12 months without a period) is 51, this is just an average, not a guarantee. The truth is, menopause can and does happen much earlier. Women in their 40s, 30s, 20s, and even their teens can experience symptoms. If you're younger and feeling "menopausal," you're not alone, and it's important to know the facts.

Understanding Early Menopause vs. POI

There are specific terms for menopause that occurs earlier than average:

• Early Menopause: This is defined as menopause that happens before the age of 45.

• Premature Ovarian Insufficiency (POI): This is menopause that occurs before the age of 40. POI is far more common than most people realize. It affects approximately 4 in 100 women under the age of 40 and at least 1 in 1,000 women under 30. This means it's essential to take symptoms seriously, regardless of your age.

Why Can Menopause Happen Early?

When your ovaries stop producing eggs and hormone levels (like estrogen and progesterone) fall, menopause begins. But why would this happen decades early?

While the underlying cause is often "idiopathic" (unknown), there are several known triggers:

• Surgery: The surgical removal of ovaries (an oophorectomy) causes immediate "surgical menopause." A hysterectomy (womb removal), even when ovaries are left, can also trigger it.

• Cancer Treatments: Radiotherapy to the pelvic area or certain types of chemotherapy can damage the ovaries and lead to POI.

• Autoimmune Diseases: Conditions like type 1 diabetes, thyroid disease, or Addison's disease can be associated with POI.

• Genetic Conditions: The most common genetic cause is Turner syndrome.

The Bottom Line: Listen to Your Body

The most important takeaway is this: No one is too young for menopause.

If you are experiencing changes to your periods or other symptoms (like hot flashes, night sweats, or mood changes), don't dismiss them because you feel you're "too young."

Make an appointment with your doctor to discuss your concerns. The path to diagnosis for younger women may be different and often involves blood tests or other investigations to get a clear picture.