Menopause before the age of 40 is termed 'early menopause'. It may occur spontaneously as a result of early failure of the ovaries, or be caused surgically when a woman has her ovaries removed, or caused chemically by chemotherapy for cancer.

Symptoms of early menopause are basically the same as for natural menopause. 

Due to long term effects of oestrogen deficiency, the risks of developing osteoporosis or heart disease are considerably higher than for women reaching menopause at the expected age. For this reason, it is of extreme importance that advice is sought from your doctor. Treatment is usually long-term hormone replacement, with the risks particularly of breast cancer not increasing until after 50.

The most common is the hot flush however, women may sometimes experience several of the symptoms listed: 

• hot flushes and night sweats
• aches and pains 
• crawling or itching sensations under the skin
• headaches
• vaginal dryness
• reduced sex drive (libido)
• urinary frequency
• tiredness
• irritability
• depression
• sleeping difficulty
• lack of self esteem
• forgetfulness

For more general information on menopause see Managing Menopause for

• Signs and symptoms,
• Your options and
• Your questions   

Content updated November 22, 2006