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Chemo-Induced Menopause

Menopause begins when the level of estrogen has dramatically been reduced. This usually happens naturally over a period of about two to eight years. With chemo-induced menopause, this natural process doesn't occur causing menopause to begin prematurely. Premature menopause can occur before the age of 40, or any time before the actual stages of menopause begin.

  1. Early Menopause

    • Early menopause is known medically as premature menopause. Premature menopause is menopause that occurs without transition, usually before the age of 40. Premature menopause can be brought on by any medical treatment that involves the removal of the ovaries, as well as genetics, and the use of radio or chemotherapy.

    Symptoms

    • Symptoms in premature menopause are more prominent than the symptoms in natural menopause because natural menopause comes about gradually. The symptoms include spotting, vaginal dryness, loss of interest in sex, mood swings, night sweats, hot flashes, bladder irritability, insomnia and dry skin, eyes or mouth.

    Diagnosis

    • The first test administered in diagnosing you with premature menopause is the use of a blood test. The blood test will determine whether you are pregnant or you have an underlying thyroid condition that may be causing the symptoms. Your blood will also be used to check estradiol levels. Estradiol is a form of the female hormone estrogen.

    Treatment

    • The first of the treatments include HRT, or hormone replacement therapy. Hormone replacement therapy is used to minimize the discomfort of symptoms experienced in menopause. Combination HRT contains both estrogen and progesterone.

    Risks

    • The risks associated with the decrease of estrogen in menopause are increased in the case of premature menopause. These risks include osteoporosis, colon and ovarian cancer, periodontal disease (gum disease) and cataracts.

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