Poor Nutrition during Fetal Development May Lead to Early Menopause

Inadequate nutrition during fetal development can lead to early menopause, reports a new study. The findings of the study are published in Menopause, the journal of The North American Menopause Society (NAMS).

Previous studies have demonstrated that fetal malnutrition can lead to adult chronic disorders such as type 2 diabetes and coronary artery disease. A new study out of China now suggests that it also can lead to early menopause and premature ovarian failure.

Perimenopause

Perimenopause is a transition phase that lasts until menopause. The low estrogen levels during this phase cause irregular periods and early menopause symptoms such as hot flashes. This phase may last from a few months to years.

‘Fetal malnutrition: Insufficient nutrition during fetal development can lead to early menopause and premature ovarian failure, reveals a new study.’
Read More..

Tweet it Now

Infants are especially sensitive to changes in their environment while still in the womb, during their earliest stages of development. It has already been documented that the development of the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis during the fetal stage plays a critical role in adulthood reproductive health. Natural menopause is a milestone of ovarian aging that results in the end of a woman's reproductive years.

Although several studies have investigated the association between famine exposure in early life and risk of various metabolic diseases in adulthood, the association with reproductive aging was not evaluated. This new study involving nearly 2,900 Chinese women specifically sought to address the effect of early life exposure to famine on age at menopause.

Dealing with Menopause symptoms through lifestyle changes

You can deal with menopause symptoms such as hot flashes, weight gain and forgetfulness by making simple lifestyle changes.

The study concluded that prenatal famine was associated with a higher risk of early menopause (age younger than 45 years), as well as a higher risk of premature ovarian failure. Although study participants were born during China's infamous famine occurring between 1956 and 1964, the study provides valuable insights into the benefits of proper nutrition during early life stages for women of any culture.

Study results appear in the article "Early life exposure to famine and reproductive aging among Chinese women."

"The findings that natural menopause occurs earlier after prenatal famine exposure suggests that food deprivation during early fetal life affects how long the future ovaries function," says Dr. JoAnn Pinkerton, NAMS executive director.

"For those women, if they are not taking estrogen therapy until the average age of menopause, their early menopause could be associated with increased risk of heart disease, osteoporosis, depression, and memory changes and changes in vaginal and sexual health."

Source: Eurekalert

Font : A-A+

Menopause

Menopause is defined as the state of permanent cessation of menstrual cycles (periods) for 12-months.

<< Drug to decrease Heart Damage in Breast Cancer

Yemen’s Cholera Outbreak Response Needs To Be Strengthened:... >>

Is a Vegetarian Diet Safe During Pregnancy?

Great care must be taken with diet during pregnancy for the baby's healthy development. Being vegetarian is not a minus but dietary recommendations must be followed closely for a healthy pregnancy.