Do Life factors influence when menopause starts?

[Alwayssomething14]

Couldn't think of a better title 😂

Is there a link between how many pregnancies you have had and when you will go through menopause? I've read that the pill can delay it ?

For background I was on the pill for maybe 3 years in my early 20s so not very long. Only have one child via IVF at 33. During treatment I only produced 6 eggs from the stimulating drugs. I've had three other natural pregnancies that failed at 6, 9 and 14 weeks.

I started my periods at 11 so quite early. Phone call with GP today suggests I may be peri at 43, due to light periods the last 6 months, this month missed but bloating and daily period pain/IBS type pain, brain fog, sleep problems. I've been asked to think about HRT or the combined pill. Blood tests on Wednesday but I know these arent very reliable. I've also been under a lot of stress/anxiety for almost a year, so very aware that other reasons overlap symptoms!

Any thoughts on my history causing an early(ish) menopause?

Apparently being veggie / vegan or being low in iron can mean you have an earlier menopause. Not sure why as surely some vegetarians are very good at getting iron and protein but data seems to show can be 2 years earlier on average

Stress impacts on oestrogen production so that could contribute to your situation

I'm not sure what you mean?
Lifestyle is things like diet, exercise, general good health.

Is there a link between how many pregnancies you have had and when you will go through menopause? I've read that the pill can delay it ?

No.

You say you've had some fertility issues so presumably low ovarian reserve. (Have you had an AMH test at all?)

It's more likely that this is what's going on, not your use of the Pill or when your periods started.

Menopause happens when eggs run out. Yes, stress can make periods erratic, but you've had other symptoms and a different history as well.

I think there is some evidence that IVF drugs and treatment may exacerbate an earlier menopause.

At least your GP is up to speed and offering you medication, which is great.