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The ceasing of mensuration in women is called menopause and the defined age at which should occur ranges from 45-55. However, if it occurs before the prescribed age, it is called premature menopause. Menopause is a natural phenomenon in women at a specific age during which their periods stops and it implies the end of woman`s fertile years. There is no difference in menopause and premature menopause, it`s just that the former occurs at the age of 50s while the latter may occur quite early. Premature menopause may take place because of genetics, illness, or medical procedures and it may induce some complications. Early menopause increases the risk of diseases such as osteoporosis,  diabetes, high blood pressure, heart diseases, etc among women and that is why medical experts are finding ways to cope with the situation.

The cases of premature menopause are rising extensively each year that has led to the growing concerns regarding the phenomenon. If menopause occurs before 45, it is considered as early menopause, but if it occurs before 40, it is known as premature menopause.

Causes of Premature Menopause:
Premature menopause is associated with many factors and lifestyle changes are one of them. It has been observed that modern lifestyle and bad eating habits are promoting premature menopause but there are many other causes such as:

• Genetic factors
• Nutrition deficiency
• Excess consumption of alcohol
• Excessive smoking
• Illness such as premature ovarian failure may also induce premature menopause
• Certain medical procedures may also result in premature menopause
• Chronic stress to the body
• Exposure to harmful radiations

Symptoms:
The symptoms of premature menopause are not distinct to menopause and some of them to be specified are:

• Missed or irregular periods
• Vaginal dryness along with loss in flexibility and vagina may also become thinner
• Changes in period pattern such as heavy or light blood flow, lasts for few days or may go for more days, shifts in dates, etc
• As ovaries produce less estrogen at the time of menopause one may experience hot flashes
• Change in emotional state, mood swings, etc
• Dry skin, mouth or eyes
• Feeling sleepy and tired
• Bladder irritability and weakening of bladder control
• Reduced sex drive
• Confusion and trouble focusing

Health effects of Premature Menopause:
As menopause associates reduced production of estrogen by the ovaries, it affects the overall well-being of women and increasing risk for certain medical conditions such as osteoporosis. Eye diseases such as cataract are more likely to occur during premature menopause. Some other health conditions that may develop during premature menopause are periodontal(gums) disease, tooth loss, ovarian cancer, etc.