Fact-checked
х

All iLive content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.

We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable media sites, academic research institutions and, whenever possible, medically peer reviewed studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses ([1], [2], etc.) are clickable links to these studies.

If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please select it and press Ctrl + Enter.

The timing of menopause depends on your lifestyle

, medical expert
Last reviewed: 01.07.2025
Published: 2012-04-25 09:34

Smoking has the biggest impact on the onset of premature menopause. Smokers experience menopause two years earlier than others, says Dr. Daniel Morris of the Institute of Cancer Research in England. Excess weight, on the other hand, delays the onset of menopause by about a year.

Doctors associate the age at which menopause begins with risk factors for chronic diseases. For example, older age is associated with an increased risk of breast cancer. Menopause is thought to occur when the number of ovarian follicles drops below a certain point. Typically, a woman's ovaries stop producing eggs between the ages of 41 and 55.

Previous studies have shown that genetic factors, smoking, and lack of children provoke early menopause. Synthetic chemical compounds, which can be found in almost everything around a modern person, from food packaging to clothing, containing perfluorocarbons, provoke early menopause. In women who spend a lot of time training or are on diets rich in polyunsaturated fats, menopause begins earlier.

But Morris felt the evidence was unconvincing and needed to be re-examined.

She studied data from approximately 51,000 women aged 40-98. Approximately 21,500 of the fairer sex had already gone through menopause. Women who had gained about 14 kg at 25-30 years of age experienced menopause a year later than the rest. Late menopause was also associated with the habit of drinking more than two drinks a day at the age of 25-49. Mothers of many children also managed to postpone the onset of menopause.


The iLive portal does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
The information published on the portal is for reference only and should not be used without consulting a specialist.
Carefully read the rules and policies of the site. You can also contact us!

Copyright © 2011 - 2025 iLive. All rights reserved.