What are the signs of early menopause?

If you have any of the following, do not wait—seek emergency care or contact local emergency services:

• Sudden heavy vaginal bleeding
• Severe depressive symptoms or thoughts of self-harm
• Chest pain, shortness of breath, or fainting

Symptoms that commonly raise the possibility of early menopause include:

• Menstrual irregularity or cessation of periods (amenorrhea), especially before age 40
• Hot flashes and night sweats
• Vaginal dryness and pain during sexual intercourse.
• Decreased sexual desire (libido)
• Sleep disorders and fatigue

Evaluation is guided by history and examination. Commonly used tests include:

• Hormone tests such as FSH and estradiol (results are interpreted in clinical context and may require repeat measurements)
• AMH level and thyroid function tests when indicated
• Pregnancy test if periods are irregular
• Pelvic ultrasound in selected cases

Laboratory and imaging results should be interpreted by a clinician within the overall clinical context.

Initial assessment is often by an obstetrics and gynaecology specialist. Other specialties that may be involved include:

• Endocrinology and metabolic diseases (for evaluation of hormonal causes)
• Reproductive medicine or infertility specialists (if pregnancy is planned)
• Mental health specialists (for significant mood changes or suicidal thoughts)
• Family medicine (for general guidance and concurrent health issues)

Gather information that can help your clinician:

• Record dates and patterns of your menstrual cycles (last menstrual period, how cycles have changed over recent years)
• Note any family history of early menopause or related conditions
• List past surgeries, chemotherapy/radiotherapy or medications you have used
• Describe when symptoms began and how severe they are

Providing these details helps the clinician evaluate your situation; definitive diagnosis and management require clinical assessment and tests.