Certain factors, such as higher levels of estradiol and follicle-stimulating hormone, may predict the age of natural onset of menopause.
- Taking lifestyle habits into account, such as the consumption of tobacco, alcohol or even physical activity, adds to the precision of the estimates.
- In general, menopause occurs between the ages of 45 and 55.
Despite advances in science, some questions remain unanswered. The age of the natural onset of menopause is one. Published on April 14 in the journal Menopause, however, a new study provides some answers. Several factors, such as higher levels of estradiol, follicle-stimulating hormone or lifestyle habits could help to estimate when menopause will occur.
Menopause, usually between 45 and 55 years old
Being able to anticipate the onset of menopause can be extremely useful, whether for family planning issues, but also to identify the women most likely to experience an early menopause and be at greater risk of health problems such as as cardiovascular disease, depression and osteoporosis. Another issue that many women face is the length of time they will have bothersome bleeding, which can affect how they choose to manage it, whether by opting for a hysterectomy, taking an oral contraceptive pill, or simply choosing to have it. ‘expect.
Precisely anticipating the onset of menopause, which generally occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, is generally complicated. Previous research has focused on biomarkers to try to predict its arrival, without proving effective enough. In this new study, researchers used a comprehensive set of potential predictors to identify factors that best predict the onset of menopause.
Lifestyle habits influence the onset of menopause
Higher levels of estradiol and follicle-stimulating hormone, irregular menstrual cycles, and symptoms of menopause are strong indicators that a woman is approaching menopause. Lifestyle habits such as alcohol consumption, smoking, relationship status, physical activity and use of hormonal contraception are all indicators that add to the precision of the estimates.
“This study, although conducted with a small number of women, adds to our knowledge of important factors in a model for predicting the age at which a woman will enter menopause.concludes Stephanie Faubion, medical director of the North American Menopause Society. Accurately predicting the age at natural menopause would better inform how we counsel women. This would also make it possible to better manage the multiple related problems, such as cardiovascular risk, family planning and contraception. One could also have better management of perimenopausal problems such as irregular or heavy menstrual bleeding, vasomotor symptoms and mood changes..”
.
