Most of us associate menopause with women in their 50s or 60s, but menopause can start as early as in the 30s (premature menopause) or before age 45 (early menopause). There are several causes but, in 50-60% of the cases, the cause is unknown.
Early or premature menopause can be caused by factors that damage the ovaries or trigger premature follicle depletion, which is the loss of ovarian function before age 40, leading to infertility and low estrogen. Genetic conditions (Turner syndrome where one chromosome is missing or altered), autoimmune diseases, cancer treatments (chemotherapy/radiation) and smoking are some of the culprits.
Interestingly, being underweight (having a BMI of less than 18.5) is associated with a higher risk of early menopause. Low body fat can affect estrogen levels and ovarian function, potentially speeding up the depletion of follicles. Being underweight at age 18 or having a history of significant weight cycling also increases this risk. Beware all you girls and women who aspire to being a Size 0.
The Atrophied Vagina Club 