DEAR Dr. Fritz,
I hope you have a wonderful day. I am Nelly of Pantukan. I am 29 years old, but, my menstruation stopped just a few months after I turned 29. My friends told me that I may have premature menopause. I really want to see a doctor. But, I still quite apprehensive. What are the symptoms, though of premature menopause? And if I do have premature menopause, is there any help?
Thank you. May God bless you.
Nelly of Pantukan
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Dear Nelly of Pantukan,
Usually, the onset of menopause is between 45 to 55 years old. But sometimes because of genetics, illness, or medical procedures, some women go through menopause before the age of 40. And menopause that occurs before this age, whether natural or induced, is known as "premature" menopause. You are 29, and I am afraid this is what you have.
Now, let’s get to see what are the symptoms of Premature Menopause? Just to try to check if you have them. Remember that the symptoms of premature menopause are often the same as those experienced by women undergoing natural menopause. This may include:
- Irregular or missed periods
- Periods that are heavier or lighter than usual
- Hot flashes or a sudden feeling of warmth that spreads over the upper body
Along with the symptoms listed above, some women may experience:
- Vaginal dryness
This is because the vagina becomes thinner and less flexible, which will cause pain during sexual intercourse.
- Bladder irritability and worsening or loss of bladder control
Women can have incontinence. They can pee in their panties. I think at this time, adult diapers would be handy anytime you go out - to save you from embarrassment.
- Emotional changes
They can have irritability, mood swings, and mild depression. This is the reason why many jokes would call some people who have mood swings or temper menopausal.
- Dry skin, eyes, or mouth
- Sleeplessness
- Decreased sex drive
Well, I believe this is related to vaginal dryness, which could lead to sexual pains. Who would want to be hurt anyway? Anything that is supposed to be pleasurable when related to pain is not anything sexy.
Oops. There are still more to say. But, we are running out of space for now. So, we’ll continue this in my next issue. Until then!
Dr. Fritz
(Dr. Fritz Legarde Espedilla is an aesthetic dermatologist and surgeon and a clinical sexologist. She is also trained in hypnotherapy and Medical Acupuncture. She has been in the broadcast media for more than a decade and has written a book based on her 15 year stint with her radio program, “Healthy is Sexy Secrets ni Dr. Fritz.” For your questions, you may send them to Dear Dr. Fritz, c/o Sunstar-Davao Publishing Inc., Ebro-Pelayo Building, Jacinto St., Davao City, or you e-mail them to dokfritz@yahoo.com. If you don’t wish your letter to be published, we regret that we cannot answer them. Thank you for your understanding.)