Menopause epidemiology and demographics

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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]

Age

The average age of menopause is 51 years, and the normal age range for last period ever is somewhere between age 45 to 55. Age 55 to 60 for last period ever is described as a "late menopause". An "early menopause" is defined as last period ever between the age of 40 to 45.

Some women reach menopause at a much younger age than average, especially if they have had cancer or another serious illness, and have undergone chemotherapy. This is sometimes referred to as a "chemical menopause".

Premature menopause (or premature ovarian failure) is defined as last period ever occurring before the age of 40; it occurs in 1% of women and is not viewed as being due to normal causes. Some known causes of spontaneous premature menopause include autoimmune disorders, thyroid disease, and diabetes mellitus, but often it is idiopathic or due to unknown causes.

Premature menopause is diagnosed or confirmed by measuring the levels of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH); the levels of these hormones will be higher if menopause has occurred. Rates of premature menopause have been found to be significantly higher in fraternal and identical twins; approximately 5% of twins reach menopause before the age of 40. The reasons for this are not completely understood. Transplants of ovarian tissue between identical twins have been successful in restoring fertility.