Early menopause, defined as menopause occurring before age 45, affects about 5% of women. This condition can occur naturally or be induced by surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy.
The potential effects of early menopause on life expectancy are complex with many factors to consider. A few key points:
- Several large longitudinal studies have found that women who experience early menopause tend to have a shorter life expectancy compared to women who go through menopause at the average age. The earlier the onset of menopause, the greater the reduction in life expectancy.
- However, it's difficult to establish cause and effect. Early menopause itself may not directly shorten a woman's lifespan. Rather, it serves as a marker for other underlying health issues that influence longevity.
- For example, some autoimmune diseases, genetic conditions, and cancer treatments can trigger early menopause. These conditions likely contribute more directly to decreased life expectancy.
- That said, declining estrogen levels associated with early menopause may also play a role via effects on:
- Bone health
- Heart disease risk
- Brain health
- Overall metabolic function
- With hormone therapy, the effects of early menopause on life expectancy may be minimized. However, more research is still needed.
In summary, early menopause correlates with a shorter lifespan on average. But there are many influencing factors at play. Working with a knowledgeable
women's health provider can help optimize health and longevity if early menopause occurs.
If you're dealing with early menopause or
perimenopause symptoms, the
expert physicians at
Butterfly Hormone Center offer cutting-edge
hormone replacement therapies, tailored nutrition and fitness guidance, and more to help you take charge of your health during this transition.
Contact us today for a consultation.
We hope this overview helps provide some insight on the relationship between early menopause and life expectancy. Please reach out with any other questions!
