Let’s talk about the thing no one warned you about - but should have.
If your period’s changing, disappearing, or doing things that feel… off — and you’re being told you’re “too young” for menopause - this one’s for you.
Early menopause is real. It’s under-talked about. And way too many people are left confused, dismissed, or quietly panicking because no one joins the dots.
So we are. Calmly. Clearly. No drama. No shame.
What Is Early Menopause?
Menopause usually happens around your early 50s. Early menopause is when it happens before age 45. And premature menopause? That’s before 40.
It means your ovaries stop releasing eggs and hormone levels - especially oestrogen - drop earlier than expected. For some, it’s sudden. For others, it creeps in slowly, with symptoms that are easy to brush off… until they’re not.
Common Signs of Early Menopause
Early menopause doesn’t look the same for everyone. But some common signs include:
- Periods becoming irregular, lighter, heavier - or stopping altogether
- Hot flushes or night sweats
- Mood changes, anxiety, or low mood
- Brain fog or trouble concentrating
- Sleep problems
- Low libido or vaginal dryness
- Fatigue that doesn’t match your lifestyle
And here’s the thing: these symptoms often get blamed on stress, burnout, parenting, or “just getting older.” Especially if you’re in your 30s. You’re not imagining it. And you’re not overreacting.
Why Early Menopause Gets Missed
Let’s be honest - menstrual health isn’t always taken seriously. Add age into the mix, and a lot of people are told:
- “You’re too young for menopause.”
- “It’s probably stress.”
- “Come back if it gets worse.”
But cycle changes are data. Symptoms are information. And you deserve to be listened to.
If something feels different in your body - especially over several months - it’s worth pushing for answers.
What Causes Early Menopause?
Sometimes there’s a clear reason. Sometimes there isn’t.
Possible causes include:
- Genetics (family history matters)
- Autoimmune conditions
- Certain medical treatments (like chemotherapy)
- Surgery affecting the ovaries
- Unknown causes (which is more common than you’d think)
And no - it’s not something you caused by being “too stressed” or doing life wrong.
What To Do If You Think You’re Experiencing Early Menopause
Take a breath. Then take these steps:
1. Track Your Cycle and Symptoms
Note changes in your period, sleep, mood, and energy. Patterns help doctors take you seriously.
2. Ask for Blood Tests
Hormone testing (like FSH and oestrogen) can help clarify what’s going on. You’re allowed to ask.
3. Get a Second Opinion
If you feel dismissed, that’s a sign to try another GP or specialist. You’re not being difficult - you’re advocating for your health.
4. Learn Your Options
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT), lifestyle changes, mental health support, and community care can all help. Early menopause is manageable with the right support.
The Emotional Side No One Talks About
Early menopause isn’t just physical - it can hit emotionally too. Grief, anger, confusion, relief, fear… all valid. Especially if this wasn’t something you expected or planned for. You’re allowed to feel however you feel about it. There’s no “right” reaction. What matters is knowing you’re not alone - and that support exists, even if you have to ask loudly for it.
Early menopause doesn’t mean your body has failed you. It means your body is communicating something important - and you deserve care, clarity, and compassion in response.
If your cycle is changing and no one’s listening, keep speaking.
If something feels off, trust that instinct.
And if you’re navigating this quietly - know we see you.
Your health matters. Your experience counts. And you don’t have to figure this out on your own.
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