Premature Menopause

Premature menopause is menopause that happens before the age of 40 - whether it is natural or induced. Some women have premature menopause because of:

• family history (genes)
• medical treatments, such as surgery to remove the ovaries
• cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy or radiation to the pelvic area

Having premature menopause puts a woman at more risk for osteoporosis later in her life. It also may be a source of great distress, since many women younger than 40 still want to have children. Women who still want to become pregnant can talk with their HCP about donor egg programs.