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Premature or early menopause can occur at any age, and in many cases
there's no clear cause.
Symptoms
On average, most symptoms last around 4 years from your last period.
However, around 1 in every 10 women experiences them for up to 12
years.
These can have a significant impact on daily life for some women.
Treatment
HRT involves taking estrogen to replace the decline in the body's own
levels around the time of the menopause. This can relieve many of the
associated symptoms.
HRT is not advisable for some women, such as those who have had
certain types of breast cancer or are at high risk of getting breast
cancer.
Symptomatic Management
If the flushes and sweats are frequent or severe, HRT may be suggested
If HRT isn't suitable for the patient, or the patient would prefer not to
have it, other medications that can help, such as clonidine (a high blood
pressure medicine) or certain antidepressants may be recommended.
Mood changes
Some women experience mood swings, low mood and anxiety around
the time of the menopause.
CBT is a type of talking therapy that can improve low mood and feelings
of anxiety
It's common for women to lose interest in sex around the time of the
menopause, but HRT can often help with this. If HRT isn't effective,
patient might be offered a testosterone supplement.
Testosterone is the male sex hormone, but it can help to restore sex
drive in menopausal women. It’s not currently licensed for use in
women, although it can be prescribed by a doctor if they think it might
help.
Possible side effects of testosterone supplements include acne and
unwanted hair growth.
Weak bones
Follow-up appointments:
Patient needs a follow-up review after 3 months, and once a year after
that.
Many women will need treatment for a few years, until most of their
menopausal symptoms have passed.