Introduction
What most people know about menopause is that it is the end of a womanās reproductive cycle and occurs between 45 and 55 years of age. But, did you know, in many females, menopause can occur before 40? Itās true and is called premature or early menopause.
Menopause is an important milestone in the life of a woman and can bring with it several bodily and emotional changes. When menopause occurs early, it has additional implications, such as effect on fertility, bone health and overall quality of life. Recognising symptoms of menopause early and seeking professional care is key to maintaining long-term wellness.
Fortunately, Dubai is home to world-class menopause specialists and hormone clinics, such as Medi-Gyn, that offer advanced diagnostic tools and personalised treatment options. At Medi-Gyn, our health experts are experienced in helping females undergoing early menopause live their best, healthier lives.
In this blog, we help you understand more about early menopause, including its signs and symptoms, management, and how to live a healthy life post-menopause.
Understanding Early Menopause
One of the first questions that pops up in our minds on hearing āearly menopauseā is āwhy does it happen?ā The cause of early menopause varies in different individuals and may include:
- Genetics and family history: Females whose mothers or sisters experienced early menopause may be more predisposed to it.
- Autoimmune diseases: Conditions such as thyroid disorders or rheumatoid arthritis can impact ovarian function. So, females with these conditions may be at a higher risk for early menopause.
- Medical treatments: Chemotherapy, radiation, or procedures like pelvic surgery can damage ovarian tissue, resulting in early menopause.
- Hormonal or ovarian disorders: Conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or low estrogen production may contribute to early decline in hormone levels, resulting in early menopause.
- Lifestyle and stress: smoking, extreme diet changes, chronic stress and poor sleeping patterns can accelerate hormonal imbalance, triggering early menopause.
How is Early Menopause Different From Natural Menopause?
The main difference between early and normal menopause is the timing, followed by potential health implications. Since oestrogen plays a vital role in maintaining bone density, heart health and emotional balance, a sudden drop in its levels can trigger:
- Osteoporosis
- Cardiovascular issues
- Mood disorders
All of these affect the womanās overall health and well-being.
Common Early Menopause Symptoms
Knowing the symptoms of early menopause can help women understand what their body is going through and seek medical help from experts at specialised clinics like Meid-Gyn.
Here are a few common symptoms to look out for!
Physical symptoms
- Irregular or missed periods
- Hot flashes
- Night sweats
- Vaginal dryness, leading to discomfort during sex
- Fatigue and low energy levels
- Slower metabolism (which may lead to weight gain)
- Thinning hair
- Dry skin
Emotional & cognitive symptoms
- Mood swings
- Frequent irritability
- Anxiety
- Mild depression or emotional flatness
- Brain fog
- Difficulty concentrating
- Sleep issues, especially insomnia
Sexual & reproductive changes
- Reduced libido
- Lighter or heavier menstrual flow before cessation
- Difficulty conceiving due to declining fertility
Although these symptoms vary among women, if they occur before the age of 45, you should seek a medical evaluation.
How to Confirm Early Menopause?
When it comes to medical conditions, self-diagnosis can be misleading and result in more harm. Since the symptoms of early menopause can overlap with other conditions like thyroid issues or stress-induced irregular cycles, it is recommended to get a comprehensive medical consultation with our experts here at Medi-Gyn.
At Medi-Gyn, diagnostic tests typically include the following evaluations:
- FSH and LH levels: Elevated follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) indicate reduced ovarian function.
- Estradiol and AMH tests: These tests measure oestrogen and ovarian reserve to help evaluate if the body is heading towards menopause.
- Thyroid and adrenal hormone tests: These tests are primarily conducted to rule out endocrine disorders, which may exhibit similar or overlapping symptoms to those of early menopause.
- Bone density (DEXA) scan: This test helps detect early signs of osteoporosis, which may be occurring due to low oestrogen.
Women who miss periods for over 3 months, experience severe hot flashes, or notice drastic mood and sleep changes should consult a doctor without delay, as they may be heading towards early menopause.
Treatment and Management Options of Early Menopause at Medi-Gyn
Effective management of early menopause depends on:
- Underlying cause
- symptom severity
- Individual health profile
At Medi-Gyn, common treatment options for early menopause include:
- Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT): Replenishes declining oestrogen and progesterone levels to help in symptom management.
- Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT): This treatment utilises plant-based hormones that are structurally identical to the bodyās natural ones, allowing for more personalised balancing.
- Supplements: Calcium, vitamin D, and phytoestrogens (found in foods such as soy, flaxseeds, and chickpeas) may help support bone strength and hormone balance.
- Lifestyle modifications:
- Eat a balanced diet rich in whole grains, lean proteins, and antioxidants.
- Stay active with strength training and yoga to improve mood and metabolism.
- Reduce stress through mindfulness, adequate rest, and hydration.
- Maintain regular check-ups to monitor hormone levels and bone health.
How to Find the Best Menopause Specialist in Dubai?
When trying to manage early menopause effectively, it is imperative to choose the right specialist. Always look for the following criteria when picking a menopause specialist in Dubai:
- DHA-licensed professionals
- Clinics offering comprehensive hormone testing and customised treatment plans
- Facilities integrating nutrition, sleep, and mental health management
- Modern diagnostic technology and positive patient testimonials
If you are looking for the top menopause clinics and specialists in Dubai, walk into Medi-Gynā the leading holistic hormone balancing and menopause management clinic in the UAE.
When to Seek Medical Help?
You must consult a menopause specialist if you notice one or more of the symptoms before the age of 45:
- Missed or irregular periods for 3 consecutive months
- Sudden mood changes
- Frequent irritability
- Poor sleep
- Persistent fatigue
- Unexplained hot flashes
- Concerns about bone strength, fertility, or premature ageing
Early intervention can prevent complications and improve your quality of life significantly.
Conclusion
Early menopause is more common than most women know. While its symptoms vary from those of normal menopause, timely diagnosis and proper care can help achieve effective symptom management.
If you suspect early menopause, consult a trusted menopause specialist at Medi-Gyn Dubai today and reclaim your balance, vitality and well-being.







