The Risks of Late Onset Menopause (Menopause After 55)

Late Onset Menopause is the term for women who don't head into menopause until their mid 50's.

Late onset menopause, also known as delayed menopause, refers to the occurrence of menopause at a later age than the average. Menopause is defined as the cessation of menstruation and the end of a woman's reproductive years. The average age of natural menopause is around 51, but it can vary widely among individuals.

While most women experience menopause in their late 40s or early 50s, some women may enter menopause later, typically in their mid to late 50s or even early 60s. Late onset menopause can be influenced by various factors, including genetics, lifestyle, and certain medical conditions.

Here are a few factors that may contribute to late onset menopause:

What Causes Late Onset Menopause?

Genetics:

Family history plays a role in determining the age at which a woman will experience menopause. If a woman's mother or sisters had a late onset of menopause, she may also experience it at a later age.

Smoking:

Research suggests that smoking may be associated with a later onset of menopause. However, it's important to note that smoking has numerous negative health effects and should be avoided.

Certain Medical Conditions:

Certain medical conditions or treatments, such as autoimmune disorders or cancer treatments, can sometimes delay the onset of menopause.

Hormonal Factors:

Hormonal imbalances or abnormalities can impact the timing of menopause. For example, women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) may experience delayed menopause.

Thyroid Disorders:

Thyroid disorders can potentially impact the timing of menopause, but it is not a common or direct cause of late onset menopause. Menopause is primarily influenced by the natural decline in reproductive hormones, particularly estrogen and progesterone, as a woman ages. However, thyroid disorders can affect the hormonal balance in the body and indirectly influence the onset and progression of menopause in some cases.

The Positives of Late Onset Menopause

Late onset menopause can have several positive aspects for women. Here are some potential benefits of experiencing menopause at a later age:

Prolonged Reproductive Years:

Late onset menopause means that a woman can have an extended period of fertility and reproductive capacity. This may allow for more time to start or expand a family if desired.

Reduced Menopausal Symptoms:

While menopause is a natural transition, the hormonal changes can cause various physical and emotional symptoms. Women who experience menopause at a later age may have a shorter duration of perimenopause, leading to a potentially shorter period of experiencing menopausal symptoms.

Increased Bone Density:

Estrogen plays a crucial role in maintaining bone density. Women who experience late onset menopause may have a longer period of estrogen production, which can contribute to greater bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.

Lower Risk of Certain Health Conditions:

The decline in estrogen levels during menopause is associated with an increased risk of certain health conditions, such as cardiovascular disease and certain types of cancer. Experiencing menopause at a later age may provide some protection against these risks.

Extended Hormonal Benefits:

Estrogen offers several health benefits beyond reproduction, including maintaining healthy skin, hair, and vaginal tissue. Women with a later onset of menopause may continue to experience these hormonal benefits for a longer duration.

Why You Should Investigate Late Onset Menopause

While late onset menopause can have some potential benefits, there can also be certain challenges or negative aspects associated with it. Here are a few potential negatives of experiencing menopause at a later age:

Prolonged Perimenopause:

Perimenopause is the transitional period leading up to menopause when hormonal fluctuations occur. Women with late onset menopause may experience a longer duration of perimenopause, which can be accompanied by various symptoms such as hot flashes, mood swings, and irregular periods. Dealing with these symptoms for an extended period can be challenging.

Increased Health Risks:

While late onset menopause may offer some protection against certain health conditions, there are also potential risks. Prolonged exposure to estrogen, which can occur with late menopause, has been associated with a slightly increased risk of breast, ovarian, and endometrial cancers. It's important to note that the overall risk increase is relatively small, but it's still a factor to consider.

Osteoporosis Risk:

While estrogen helps maintain bone density, the decline in estrogen levels during menopause can increase the risk of osteoporosis. Experiencing menopause at a later age means a longer period of time with reduced estrogen levels, which can potentially contribute to a higher risk of developing osteoporosis.

Reproductive Challenges:

Late onset menopause can affect a woman's fertility and ability to conceive. While the chance of getting pregnant naturally decreases with age, women experiencing menopause at a later age may have a reduced chance of conceiving even if they desire to have children. Assisted reproductive technologies, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF), may be an option for some women, but it can be a complex and costly process.

Conclusion:

It's important to note that the negatives mentioned above are potential considerations associated with late onset menopause, but they may not apply to every individual. The impact of menopause varies among women, and the overall experience is influenced by various factors, including overall health, genetics, and lifestyle. If you have concerns about menopause or its potential impact on your health, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and guidance.

Sources:

• Professor Andreas Obermair
• Healthline
• The Center for Menstrual Disorders