Menopause Causes & Risks

Causes

Natural menopause is a gradual process. The ovaries begin producing lower amounts of estrogen and other steroid hormones prior to menopause during a phase called perimenopause.

When menopause occurs before the age of 40 it is called premature menopause. Premature menopause can occur naturally but may also be the result of several conditions, including:

Family history of premature menopause
Autoimmune diseases
X-chromosome abnormalities
Medical treatments (pelvic surgery, surgical removal of ovaries, chemotherapy , or pelvic radiation therapy)
Medications that lower estrogen levels
Smoking

Risk Factors

A risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition. As menopause is a natural process associated with aging, there are no risk factors. Risk factors for premature menopause include:

Family history of premature menopause

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