Did you know that early menopause increases your risk of osteoporosis, heart disease, and cardiovascular disease?
While early menopause is nothing to sneeze at, there are certain instances when the average age of menopause is younger in some women. The average menopause age in women is between 45 and 55, but this isn’t set in stone.
Concerned about early menopause and don’t know how to start preparing for this life-changing event? Here’s everything you need to know about the signs of early menopause and how to prepare before it comes.
1. Irregular Periods
Irregular periods are one of the earliest signs of menopause, which usually indicates that the menstrual cycle is slowing down. This is caused by hormonal changes. The ovaries are producing less estrogen which can cause longer and shorter periods than normal. Your hormones, like estrogen and progestin, are likely to be out of balance.
To prepare for menopause, it is important to understand the common signs and symptoms. Make sure you keep up with your annual wellness appointments, maintain good nutrition, and get plenty of rest. You can also talk with your doctor about hormone replacement therapy or other treatments like lifestyle modifications and stress management.
Learning how to manage the physical and emotional changes associated with menopause can help you stay healthy and prepared during this transition. You may also need vitamins for womens health.
2. Skin Changes
Know that there is a big impact of menopause on your skin. One of the earliest signs that women have is skin changes. Those changes include the following.
Thinning Skin
Thinning skin is a symptom of early menopause. It can arise as early as 10 years before the average menopause age. Thinning skin often manifests as dryness and loss of elasticity. Also, it can appear in any part of the body.
To prepare for this, a woman should take preventative steps to protect her skin, such as moisturizing regularly and avoiding harsh soaps or other skin care products. Eating a healthy diet, exercising, and reducing stress are also important components of managing early menopause.
Dry Skin
Dry skin can be an annoying symptom of early menopause. Drying of the skin that occurs as a result of menopause can most often lead to flaking and itching. Keeping the skin well moisturized and hydrated can help reduce the itching and flaking that often accompanies dry skin.
Eating a nutritious diet, with vitamins and minerals to help provide necessary nutrients, can also aid in skin health. Additionally, it is important to stay clear of any harsh chemicals, such as irritants and fragrances, in skincare products that could further irritate the effect of dry skin.
Wrinkles
As estrogen levels drop during early menopause, the skin’s connective tissues, collagen, and elastin production are reduced. This can even lead to facial sagging and increased fine lines across the face. To prepare for skin changes associated with early menopause, a woman should use a moisturizer that contains ingredients like Vitamin E and hyaluronic acid.
Other treatments like facials, peels, and masks can help maintain moisture levels in the skin and increase collagen levels. Finally, women should protect their skin against the sun by wearing sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and protective clothing. All of these together can help a woman prepare for the skin changes that come with early menopause.
3. Emotional Changes
During menopause, emotional changes can occur or intensify in some women. People with early onset menopause may be more likely to experience emotional changes than those with normal onset — so it’s important to recognize the signs in advance.
Anxiety
Early menopause is a difficult transition for many women. Anxiety is a common symptom of early menopause, as many women find themselves feeling overwhelmed and unable to cope with their new reality.
Make sure to incorporate stress-relieving activities such as yoga, meditation, and journaling into your routine to help manage anxiety. With the right preparation, early menopause doesn’t have to be a difficult transition and can be managed with relative ease.
Depression
Early menopause can also lead to depression in some women, with symptoms like stress and fatigue. It is important to consult with a healthcare professional to properly diagnose early menopause.
Additionally, it is important to recognize the signs of depression and actively prepare for it. Women should monitor their physical and mental health closely, seek support from family and friends, identify trigger foods, and pursue healthy lifestyle habits. Additionally, speaking with a healthcare professional or counselor can help to create a plan of action, including additional therapy and possibly medication.
Mood Swings
Women affected by early menopause may experience heightened emotional sensitivity, severe irritability, and agitation. They can also have sudden bouts of weeping. Your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes such as avoiding triggers, eating a balanced diet, and exercising to help manage your symptoms.
Poor Concentration in Early Menopause
A decreased ability to concentrate can have a major impact on a woman’s daily life. It affects her ability to learn, and even recall simple tasks. Some helpful tips to deal with poor concentration include staying engaged in activities and conversations.
Also, it is essential to take regular breaks throughout the day to practice mindfulness. One must also stay on track with a healthy diet and regular exercise.
Additionally, relaxation techniques such as deep breathing can help alleviate poor concentration. Seeking support from a mental health provider such as a therapist or psychologist can also greatly improve symptoms of poor concentration.
Take Note of the Signs of Early Menopause to Better Prepare for It
Are you getting close to menopausal age? Well, there are those who may notice signs of early menopause as well. Having an awareness and preparing yourself for the possibility of entering menopause early can help minimize its impact.
Speak with an OB-GYN, do your own research, and make sure to pay attention to your body and how you’re feeling. Don’t be afraid to start preparing yourself now; being proactive can give you an edge in managing the transition to menopause.
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