Does early menopause run in families?

[NewName19]

I’m 32 (33 later this year). Started my periods at 9 and was fairly regular from the start. Normal periods (ie not heavy, not painful) until after the birth of my 2nd child 5 years ago.

Since she was born I’ve not had regular periods though the first time I went to the doctor this was linked to her breastfeeding till 2 and a half and nothing was checked due to my age.

Some cycles are as short as 23 days, others as long as 56 so I can never tell when I’ll get one. Some are so heavy that a lil lets ultra tampon or a night time sanitary towel depending on what I’m using won’t last me more than an hour and I flood out of them and I can be laying in bed sick with pain. Other cycles are so light I only need a pant liner. I’ve been waking up a lot drenched in sweat to the point I need to change the bedding (this has been going on about a year so not linked to the hot weather). Lost my sex drive too to the point it’s non existent and my poor DH wonders what’s wrong. Gaining weight despite nothing changing in diet or exercise routine. Absolutely shattered all the time (though again did link this to waking up at night due to sweating).

My nan had been through the menopause by 38 and my mother was 36. Could this irregularity be a sign of menopause approaching?

I’ve got an appointment with my doctor once the kids are back to school in September but wondered if anyone had any ideas. I can’t ask my MIL for advice as she still has regular periods at 56

Yes. It's well known.

My nan had been through the menopause by 38 and my mother was 36. Could this irregularity be a sign of menopause approaching?

You need to see your GP and be referred for specialist support from a menopause gynaecologist. You will need HRT till 52.

Is it worth seeing irregularity GP then just based on the irregularity and cycle changes? Surely they will fob me off again that I’m too young for menopause? And would I be able to have HRT if I’m in the increased risk for breast cancer range?

Yes, your GP should take you very seriously based on irregular periods and family history. If they're being obstructive ask for a second opinion.

Yes, your increased risk for breast cancer will complicate things re. HRT, which is even more reason why you need to be referred to a specialist menopause clinic/ gynae consultant specialising in menopause.

Don't just stick your head in the sand over this - the increased risks of osteoporosis and musculo-skeletal problems are way too big to ignore.

@NewName19 You didn't mention any increased cancer risk in your first post.

Why have you an increased risk?

You are not too young because there is a condition called Premature Ovarian Insufficiency which affects 1% of women. Any GP should know this.

Read the Daisy Network website which is for women who have it.

ps You didn't say you just had irregular periods, you said you had night sweats, no libido, weight gain. These are all classic signs of menopause approaching. Your GP needs to be told about all of these.

I had symptoms similar to yours when I was 32, the gp told me it was probably early menopause, no other info. I found out 2 years later I actually had PCOS not an early menopause. There are a few things your symptoms could be - Ask for a referral x

Regarding the breast cancer risk, my mother has had breast cancer, and her sister too. Plus both my aunts on my dads side. The 2 on my dads side were under 50 at diagnosis. I was told this increased my risk factor when I saw a gp about a breast lump aged 26 for which I was referred to breast clinic for

Have you been tested for the BCRA gene? It sounds like maybe you should be.

Absolutely yes, it is genetic and you need hrt if you are in menopause at a such young age.

The risks of BC using HRT do not apply to women your age. That's because you would be replacing what estrogen you ought to have , naturally, up to the age of average menopause- aged 51.

You are at more risk of other diseases- osteoporosis, heart disease and possible dementia by having a very early menopause.

Ask to be referred to a specialist.

Thank you all. I’m planning on visiting my GP in September anyway when my children are back at school. And will ask about genetic testing too regarding breast cancer gene

My mum was 'done and dusted' (her words) by 39. She remembers some hot flushes for about 6 months, then that was it. Mine has NOT been like that, but I was 'done and dusted' in terms of periods by 42. I'm on HRT, which has been a life saver. Go and see a doctor - if you don't get the response you want, go and see a different doctor. I had to see three different GPs before I got a referral to the menopause clinic, and now finally have a system that works/medics that 'get it'.