Early Menopause Symptoms

Menopause is generally considered early if it occurs before the age of 40. Infection, cancer treatments, surgery or premature ovarian failure all affect various aspects of ovarian health and can be linked to the cause of early onset menopause. Though not experienced by everyone, the following are a few symptoms of early menopause.

Menstrual Changes

• A noticeable change occurs in the normal pattern of a woman's menstrual cycle because of a disruption in the balance of hormones. These changes may include shorter cycles, very light or heavy periods and less frequent or missed periods.

Hot Flashes

• Hot flashes or "night sweats" is one of the most common menopausal complaints and is thought to be more prevalent in early onset menopause.

Weight Gain

• Weight gain or weight redistribution throughout the abdominal region can occur in early menopause. This generally results from imbalanced hormone levels or a decrease in the metabolic rate.

Headaches

• Headaches, frequently termed "menstrual migraines," most noticeably occur in women already suffering from irregular or erratic periods.

Hair Loss or Unwanted Growth

• A decrease in estrogen levels which may lead to testosterone dominance can cause thinning or loss of scalp hair and an increase in unwanted facial, chest or abdominal hair.