Delaying menopause is a controversial topic: some studies reveal it’s possible to manipulate some factors, but some experts highlight it’s a sealed deal. So, what’s the actual score? Can you delay menopause age? Find out here.
Why Some Women Want to Delay Menopause
Menopause means the woman hasn’t had a period for 12 consecutive months. It also means she can no longer get pregnant naturally.
Some women want to delay menopause age because they want to have a child, but their prime reproductive years are almost over. In other cases, the woman believes her menopause would come early, so she wants to “extend” the time she could conceive.
Finally, some women want to delay menopause age because they don’t want to experience the signs and symptoms related to it yet. Some of the effects of menopause are mood swings, night sweats, and decreased libido. But can you delay menopause age? Is it possible?
Factors that Might Delay Menopause Age
The onset of menopause varies from one woman to another. Many women experience it in their 50s, but others have it in their 40s, too.
Various studies show that some factors influence the onset of menopause. Below are some of these factors:
1. Use of Contraceptive Pills
One study showed a relationship between taking oral contraceptives during the reproductive years and later menopause onset.
Some people believe it’s because contraceptive pills “preserve” the eggs; however, other experts argue that the function of the ovarian follicles deteriorates regardless of the release of egg cells.
2. Diet High in Fruits, Protein, and Calories in General
A report showed that a diet high in fruits, proteins, and calories, in general, has a connection with later-onset menopause.
Moreover, the consumption of oily fish, fresh legumes, vitamin B6, and zinc is related to the later onset of natural menopause. On the other hand, a high intake of refined rice and paste is associated with an earlier age at natural menopause.
3. Sun Exposure
When it comes to answering the question, “Can you delay menopause age?”, in one report, the researchers found that a low level of lifelong sun exposure is associated with earlier natural menopause.
While the study didn’t delve deeper into the whys, it could be due to vitamin D. One study mentioned that the consumption of vitamin D in dairy products lowers the risk of early menopause.
4. Cigarette Smoking
If you want to delay your menopause, consider quitting smoking if you have the habit.
A study revealed that smokers reach menopause earlier than non-smokers. Furthermore, experts say smoking intensifies the symptoms of menopause, which means you risk experiencing “worse” signs and symptoms.
Can You Delay Menopause Age?
Now that we have a better idea of the factors that might affect the onset of natural menopause, can we say that it’s possible to delay it?
Experts say, not really.
Several studies might have identified the factors; however, we need further research to determine if these factors are definitive in all women.
Furthermore, there’s still a strong correlation between genetics and menopause age. If your mother reached menopause at an earlier age, there’s a chance that you’ll have early menopause, too.
Can You Delay Menopause Age? What If You Can’t?
Natural pregnancy is no longer possible after menopause; however, women still have options should they want a child.
The first is egg freezing, where they store their eggs and use them later when they want to get pregnant. Another one is to use donor egg cells, which could be fresh or frozen.
Afterward, they can take advantage of in vitro fertilization (IVF), an assistive technology where experts fertilize the egg outside the womb. Once fertilized, the woman or couple could choose to store it or implant it in the uterus.
Of course, let’s not forget that adoption is also an option.
Key Takeaways
Can you delay menopause age? Some studies have identified factors that might affect the age of menopause onset. Still, we don’t know if manipulating these factors can delay menopause for all women.
Learn more about Women’s Health here.
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