Does Early Menopause Age You Faster?

Menopause is a natural transition in a woman’s life that signals the end of her reproductive years. It usually happens between the ages of 45 and 55 but for some women, it arrives much earlier. Early menopause, which happens before 45 and premature menopause, which occurs before 40, can have significant effects on the body.

One primary concern is whether early menopause accelerates the ageing process. Many women report experiencing more rapid physical and mental changes after menopause. But is this just a coincidence or does science support the idea that early menopause speeds up ageing? Let’s dive into the facts and find out.

Key Takeaways

• Menopause typically occurs between 45-55, but early menopause (before 45) and premature menopause (before 40) can accelerate ageing.
• Estrogen decline after menopause affects skin, bones, heart health and cognitive function.
• Scientific studies suggest early menopause may contribute to faster biological ageing, increasing risks of osteoporosis, heart disease and memory decline.
• Lifestyle changes can slow ageing, including a nutrient-rich diet (phytoestrogens, omega-3s, antioxidants), regular exercise and stress management.
• Sleep helps reduce the impact of ageing; sticking to a consistent sleep schedule and practicing relaxation techniques helps.
• Psychological effects of early menopause, such as low self-esteem and stress can be managed through therapy, support groups and self-care.
• Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) can help reduce symptoms of ageing menopause, but it’s not suitable for everyone.
• Supplements like collagen, vitamin D and adaptogens can support skin, bone and hormonal health.
• Alternative therapies such as herbal remedies, acupuncture and bioidentical hormones offer additional support for menopause symptoms.
• Early intervention and medical guidance are key to managing early menopause effectively and maintaining long-term health.

Imagine waking up one day to find that your body feels different—your skin seems drier, your energy levels lower and brain fog makes even simple tasks overwhelming. You haven’t hit your 50s yet, but your doctor tells you that you’ve entered early menopause. Suddenly, you’re you’re you’re faced with concerns about ageing faster than your peers.

Menopause is a natural part of life, but when it comes earlier than expected, it raises an important question: Does early menopause speed up the ageing process? Many women who go through menopause before 45 report noticeable skin, bones and overall health changes. 

Science suggests that estrogen, which starts declining after menopause, is key in maintaining youthful skin, strong bones and a sharp mind. When it drops too soon, the body may experience signs of ageing at an accelerated rate. But does this mean ageing after menopause is inevitable? Not necessarily. 

While early menopause may increase certain health risks, how you care for your body—through diet, exercise, stress management and medical support—can make a significant difference. Women can slow the ageing process and continue to feel strong, vibrant and confident at any stage by taking proactive steps.

Read on to explore the connection between early menopause and ageing.

What is the Average Age for Menopause?

The average age for menopause is around 51, but many women start noticing symptoms in their late 40s. This transition phase, known as perimenopause, can last for several years before menopause is officially diagnosed (when periods are discontinued for 12 consecutive months). 

Taking a menopause test can help confirm hormonal changes and provide clarity during this stage.

When Does Early Menopause Start? 

Menopause is considered early when it occurs between 40 and 45 and premature when it happens before 40. Unlike natural menopause, which occurs gradually, early or premature menopause can sometimes be sudden, leading to more noticeable symptoms.

Types of Early Menopause

• Early menopause (40-45): This occurs naturally in some women due to genetic factors, autoimmune diseases or bad habits such as smoking, poor nutrition or high stress.
• Premature menopause (Before 40): This can result from ovarian insufficiency, certain medical conditions or unknown causes.
• Surgical menopause: This happens when both ovaries are removed (oophorectomy) or when medical treatments like chemotherapy or radiation damage the ovaries, causing menopause to occur abruptly.

Unlike natural menopause, which develops over several years, surgical or medically induced menopause causes estrogen levels to drop immediately. This sudden change often leads to more intense symptoms, such as night sweats, hot flashes and mood swings.

How Menopause Affects Ageing

Menopause triggers a sharp decline in estrogen, a hormone responsible for regulating multiple bodily functions. This hormonal shift marks the end of reproductive years and accelerates several ageing processes. Estrogen helps maintain skin elasticity, bone strength, heart health and cognitive function. 

When its levels drop, women may experience noticeable changes that are usually signs of ageing, such as:

Skin and Hair Changes

Estrogen is responsible for collagen production, skin hydration and elasticity. As levels decrease:

• The skin loses moisture, leading to dryness, fine lines and wrinkles.
• Collagen breakdown causes sagging and thinning of the skin.
• The skin’s capability to repair itself slows down, making it more prone to damage and pigmentation.
• Hair thinning and loss become more common, especially around the crown and temples.
• Some women experience increased facial hair due to hormonal imbalances.

To counteract these effects, hydration, sun protection and collagen-boosting skincare (such as retinoids and hyaluronic acid) can help maintain skin health.

Bone Loss and Joint Pain 

Estrogen plays a significant role in bone remodelling, the process by which bones maintain strength. Its decline can lead to:

• A low bone density increases the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.
• Weaker joints result in stiffness, discomfort and arthritis-like symptoms.
• Height loss or spinal curvature due to bone thinning over time.

To support bone health, women should focus on weight-bearing exercises, calcium and vitamin D intake and strength training to help maintain bone density.

Heart Health Decline

Before menopause, estrogen helps protect the cardiovascular system by:

• Keeping blood vessels flexible to maintain healthy circulation.
• Regulating cholesterol levels helps reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) and increases good cholesterol (HDL).
• Reducing inflammation that contributes to heart disease.

After menopause, these protective benefits decrease, leading to:

• A higher risk of hypertension (high blood pressure).
• Higher risks of heart attacks and strokes due to stiffer arteries.
• Higher cholesterol levels can contribute to plaque buildup in arteries.

Regular exercise, a heart-healthy diet (rich in omega-3s and fibre) and stress management can help maintain cardiovascular health post-menopause.

Cognitive Changes

Many women report brain fog, forgetfulness and difficulty concentrating after menopause. Estrogen plays a key role in protecting brain function and its decline may:

• Reduce blood flow to the brain, impacting memory and focus.
• Increase the risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s.
• It influences the building of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine which contributes to mood swings and depression.

Women can support cognitive health by engaging in mental stimulation (reading, puzzles, learning new skills), staying active and eating a diet rich in antioxidants and healthy fats.

The Science Behind Ageing and Menopause

Menopause is more than just a hormonal shift—it is closely linked to biological ageing at a cellular level. Several processes contribute to rapid ageing after menopause, explaining why women who experience menopause earlier may notice accelerated body changes. 

A blood test for menopause can help assess hormone levels and provide insights into these changes.

Telomere Shortening: The Cellular Ageing Clock

Telomeres are protective structures located at the ends of chromosomes that prevent DNA damage. Telomeres shorten slightly with each cell division. Once they become too short, cells lose their ability to function correctly and eventually die—a key factor in ageing.

• Studies suggest that women who experience early menopause tend to have shorter telomeres, which may indicate faster biological ageing.
• Shortened telomeres are linked to wrinkled skin and a weakened immune function which increases the risk of chronic conditions such as heart disease and Alzheimer’s.
• Estrogen maintains telomere length, so its decline during menopause may speed up this process.

Oxidative Stress: Increased Cellular Damage

Oxidative stress happens when free radicals (unstable molecules) outnumber antioxidants in the body, leading to cell damage and premature ageing.

• Estrogen has natural antioxidant properties, which help neutralise free radicals and protect cells.
• After menopause, the drop in estrogen makes the body more vulnerable to oxidative stress, leading to faster skin ageing, weakened immune function and a higher risk of degenerative diseases.
• Increased oxidative damage contributes to heart disease, neurodegenerative disorders and inflammation-related conditions like arthritis.

Eating a diet rich in antioxidants (including berries, leafy greens and nuts) and limiting exposure to environmental toxins helps counteract oxidative stress.

Inflammation: The Silent Driver of Ageing

Chronic low-grade inflammation is one of the main reasons for ageing and age-related diseases. This type of inflammation, often called ” inflammageing”, increases after menopause.

• Estrogen helps regulate inflammatory responses, keeping them in check.
• When estrogen declines, the body enters a state of persistent low-grade inflammation, which accelerates wrinkles, joint pain, heart disease and cognitive decline.
• Chronic inflammation also plays a role in osteoporosis, increasing bone breakdown and weakening the skeletal structure.

Eating an anti-inflammatory diet (rich in omega-3s, turmeric, and green tea), staying active, and managing stress help reduce inflammation and slow ageing.

Does Early Menopause Lead to Faster Ageing?

Research strongly suggests that early menopause accelerates biological ageing, increasing the risk of age-related conditions at a younger age. While menopause is a natural phase of life, experiencing it before the age of 45 means the body is exposed to estrogen deficiency for a more extended period, leading to more pronounced ageing effects.

Several studies have linked early and premature menopause to faster declines in bone health, heart function and cognitive abilities. Here’s how:

Faster Loss of Bone Density and Higher Osteoporosis Risk 

Estrogen helps maintain bone density by regulating bone remodelling, which keeps bones strong. When estrogen levels drop suddenly due to early menopause, bone breakdown outpaces bone formation, leading to:

• More rapid bone loss increases the risk of osteoporosis and fractures at a younger age.
• Weakened joints and cartilage contribute to joint pain, stiffness and arthritis-like symptoms.
• There is a higher likelihood of fractures in the hips, spine and wrists, which can significantly impact mobility and quality of life.

According to research, women who experience menopause before 45 have a significantly higher risk of osteoporosis-related fractures compared to those who undergo menopause later.

Increased Heart Disease Risk at a Younger Age

Estrogen provides protective benefits for the heart, including:

• Regulating cholesterol levels helps maintain a healthy balance between “good” (HDL) and ” bad” (LDL) cholesterol.
• Keeping blood vessels flexible and reducing plaque buildup lowers the risk of high blood pressure and heart disease.
• Preventing inflammation that contributes to cardiovascular problems.

When menopause occurs early, the loss of estrogen removes these protective effects sooner, leading to:

• A higher risk of high blood pressure, heart disease and strokes in midlife.
• Increased arterial stiffness, making blood circulation less efficient.
• There is a higher chance of developing metabolic conditions such as type 2 diabetes and insulin resistance.

Studies show that women who go through early menopause are almost twice as likely to develop heart disease compared to those who experience menopause at the typical age.

Higher Chances of Cognitive Decline and Memory Issues

Estrogen is not just a reproductive hormone—it also supports brain function by:

• Enhancing blood flow to the brain to support memory and cognitive abilities.
• Protecting neurons from oxidative damage, reducing the risk of neurodegenerative diseases.
• Regulating neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, which influence mood and mental clarity.

Early menopause may increase the risk of:

• Memory problems, brain fog and difficulty concentrating.
• Higher chances of developing Alzheimer’s and other dementias due to prolonged estrogen deficiency.
• Mood disorders like anxiety and depression are often linked to hormonal changes.

A study published in Neurology found that women who experience early menopause may face cognitive decline faster than those who enter menopause at a later age.

How to Slow Down Ageing After Menopause

Menopause may accelerate ageing, but the right treatments and lifestyle choices can help maintain bone strength, skin health and overall vitality. Here are some practical ways to counteract the effects of estrogen loss.

1. Eat a Nutrient-Rich Diet

Certain foods can help combat the effects of menopause and ageing:

• Phytoestrogens (found in soy, flaxseeds and legumes) mimic estrogen.
• Omega-3 fatty acids (from fish, chia seeds and walnuts) reduce inflammation.
• Antioxidants (berries, green tea and dark chocolate) protect against oxidative stress.
• Calcium and Vitamin D (dairy, leafy greens and supplements) support bone health.

2. Stay Active

• Strength training helps prevent muscle loss and strengthens bones.
• Cardio exercises support heart health and improve circulation.
• Flexibility and balance exercises (like yoga) reduce the risk of falls and improve joint mobility.

3. Prioritise Sleep

Poor sleep accelerates ageing. To improve sleep quality:

• Stick to a consistent sleep schedule.
• Avoid caffeine and screens before bedtime.
• Consider magnesium or herbal teas for relaxation.

4. Manage Stress

Stress increases cortisol, a hormone that contributes to premature ageing. Try:

• Meditation and deep breathing exercises.
• Yoga and gentle stretching.
• Spending time outdoors boosts mood and reduces stress.

Medical and Alternative Treatments

Managing early menopause requires a mix of medical, nutritional, and alternative approaches to reduce symptoms and protect long-term health.

1. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)

HRT replenishes estrogen levels, helping to prevent rapid bone loss, reduce hot flashes, and support heart health. It can also improve skin elasticity and cognitive function, slowing ageing effects. However, it’s not suitable for all women, especially those with an underlying history of breast cancer, blood clots or heart disease.

A perimenopause test helps identify hormonal changes and determine whether HRT is a suitable option.

2. Supplements for Healthy Ageing

Certain supplements help counteract the effects of estrogen decline and promote overall well-being:

• Collagen supports skin hydration and joint flexibility, reducing wrinkles and stiffness.
• Calcium & Vitamin D strengthens bones, reducing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.
• Omega-3s improve heart health and brain function and reduce inflammation, which is key after menopause.
• Adaptogens (ashwagandha, maca, rhodiola) help regulate stress hormones, boost energy, and support mood balance.

3. Alternative Therapies

Natural remedies can help manage menopause symptoms with fewer side effects:

• Acupuncture may help with hot flashes, night sweats, and stress relief by improving circulation and hormonal balance.
• Herbal remedies like evening primrose oil and black cohosh are commonly used to alleviate menopause-related discomfort.
• Plant-derived bioidentical hormones provide a more natural alternative to traditional HRT, but doctors must monitor their safety and effectiveness.

Final Thoughts

So, does early menopause age you faster? Yes, it does. The loss of estrogen affects multiple systems in the body, leading to faster signs of ageing. However, ageing after menopause isn’t inevitable—there are many ways to slow down the process and maintain overall health.

Women can take control of their ageing journey and feel vibrant at any stage by adopting a healthy lifestyle, managing stress and exploring medical and natural treatments. If you’re experiencing early menopause, take a perimenopause assessment and consult a healthcare provider to make well-informed decisions about your health and well-being.

For expert guidance and personalised support, visit Prologue Wellness to explore the best strategies for managing early menopause and healthy ageing.