Menopause: before and after
What is premature menopause?
Menopause is called "premature" if it happens at or before the age of 40--whether it is natural or brought on by medical means (induced). Some women have
premature menopause because of:
- Family history (genes)
- Medical treatments, such as surgery to remove the ovaries
- Cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation to the pelvic area that damage the ovaries-- although menopause does not always occur
Having
premature menopause puts a woman at more risk for osteoporosis later in her life. For women who want to have children, premature menopause can be a source of great distress. Women who still want to become pregnant can talk with their doctors about other ways of having children, such as donor egg programs or adoption.
What is postmenopause?
Postmenopause is the term for all the years beyond menopause. It begins after you have not had a period for 12 months in a row--whether your menopause was natural or medically induced.
