Why Do Some Women Start Menopause Early (And What Can They Do About It)?

You know it’s coming. Menopause is a natural part of every woman’s life, and you may even look forward to the day when you don’t have to deal with periods and birth control. 

However, if menopause occurs unexpectedly in your 30s or 40s, you’re probably wondering why and what to do about it. 

We get it. 

At North Atlanta OB/GYN in Atlanta, Alpharetta, and Marietta, Georgia, our board-certified physicians understand that every woman’s menopause experience is unique, including the age at which it begins. We’re here to support you through every stage of this natural transition. 

Here’s what you should know about early-onset menopause.

Menopause 101

You probably already know that menopause signals the end of your reproductive years, but the details beyond that matter, too.

Menopause officially occurs when you’ve gone 12 consecutive months without a period. This typically happens in a woman’s late 40s or early 50s, but for some women, menopause begins earlier due to various reasons, including genetics, a hysterectomy, chemotherapy, or a condition called primary ovarian insufficiency. 

Regardless of when it occurs, the hormonal changes that come with menopause can cause mild-to-severe symptoms.

Recognizing symptoms of menopause

The transition to menopause, known as perimenopause, often lasts several years and comes with fluctuating hormone levels. These changes may cause:

• Hot flashes and night sweats 
• Mood swings or memory difficulties 
• Insomnia and fatigue 
• Vaginal dryness and discomfort during sex 
• Weight fluctuations or difficulty concentrating 

Not every woman experiences all these symptoms. While irregular periods are common during perimenopause, it’s important to note that pregnancy is still possible until menopause is complete — one full year of no periods. 

If you’re unsure, schedule a visit with one of our menopause experts. We can help you understand the process and where you are in the transition. 

Managing menopause symptoms

At North Atlanta OB/GYN, our goal is to help you thrive during menopause. Whether your symptoms are mildly annoying or totally disruptive, we offer tailored treatments, including:

Hormone therapy

From BioTE® bioidentical hormones derived from plant sources to options like patches, creams, and pills, hormone therapy can alleviate your hot flashes, night sweats, and mood changes while also supporting bone health to reduce the risk of osteoporosis.

Vaginal revitalization with MonaLisa Touch®

For vaginal dryness or urinary incontinence, we offer MonaLisa Touch, an innovative, nonsurgical laser therapy that allows you to live more comfortably and confidently.

We assess your health history, symptoms, and personal preferences before recommending a plan. If hormone therapy isn’t the right choice for you, we explore other effective options to help you find relief.

If menopause symptoms are interfering with your daily life, relationships, or sleep, our team is here to help. Call North Atlanta OB/GYN, or book your consultation online today to start feeling like yourself again.