• Early menopause occurs when menstrual periods permanently stop before the age of 45 years.
• Menopause before the age of 40 is termed 'premature menopause'
• There are many possible causes for spontaneous menopause but in over 50 per cent, no cause is found.
• Early menopause may impact on many different aspects of life including physical and psychological wellbeing.
• Women need specialised management including hormone replacement therapy, counseling and ongoing long-term follow up.
• The long-term risks of early menopause include early onset of osteoporosis and heart disease.
• Early menopause causes loss of fertility.

For more information 'About Early/Premature Menopause' go to:

• Causes
• Clinical presentation
• Definitions
• Diagnosis
• Incidence/risks
• Labratory investigations

Content updated November 3 2010