If a woman experiences menopause before the age of 40 years she is considered to have had an early or premature menopause. Managing early menopause requires attention to both emotional and physical aspects of your life.

Emotional Wellbeing

Along with the physical changes that occur during menopause, women who experience this change early in life may also experience changes in mood and emotional wellbeing.

For more see Emotional Wellbeing

Therapies 

Hormone Therapy

Hormone replacement may reduce many of the unpleasant effects of symptoms of the menopause. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of hormone replacement with your doctor. Moderate to high doses of oestrogen should be prescribed and testosterone therapy should be included.

For more see Hormone Therapy

Other Therapies

Other therapies such such as 'natural' herb and plant medications can be of benefit to some women. It is important to remember that these medications can have unpleasant side effects in some women, as can prescribed western medications. For long term guidance and balance it is important to see a registered naturopath.

Natural therapies can often be taken in conjunction with hormone replacement. Note that it is important to let both your doctor and naturopath know exactly what each has prescribed. 

For more see Other Therapies.

Lifestyle

Lifestyle changes and controlling physical symptoms will often improve general wellbeing. and unpleasant symptoms of early menopause may be  reduced.

There are many benefits to moderating your alcohol consumption and if you smoke, quitting. 

For more see Lifestyle

Nutrition

Eat a healthy diet with a wide variety of food.

For more see Nutrition

Physical Activity

Advantages of regular physical activity include maintaining heart health, bone health as well as providing a feeling of relaxation and well being. 

This helps us to cope better with stress in our everyday lives.

For more see Physical Activity

Health Issues

• 2 yearly Pap tests (see your doctor or women's health nurse)
• Have regular breast checks by your doctor
• Have a mammogram every 2 years if you are over 50 years of age
  (a free service from BreastScreen - Phone 132 050)

For more see Health Issues

Content updated December 11, 2005