women s health issues
Premature Menopause
Causes of Premature Menopause
Premature menopause has many causes: Genetic abnormalities: Chromosomes, including the sex chromosomes, may be abnormal. Sex chromosome abnormalities include Turner Syndrome , disorders that result in having a Y chromosome (which normally occurs only in males), and Autoimmune Disorders : The body produces abnormal antibodies that attack the body’s tissues, including the ovaries. Metabolic disorders such as enzyme deficiencies Viral infections: Mumps is an example. Chemotherapy or radiation therapy for cancer Surgical removal of the ovaries: Surgery to remove both ovaries (bilateral oophorectomy) ends menstrual periods and causes menopause. Surgical removal of the uterus: Surgery to remove the uterus (hysterectomy) ends menstrual periods but does not cause most of the other symptoms of menopause as long as the ovaries are functioning. Toxins: Tobacco is an example. If the cause is a disorder that confers a Y chromosome, the risk of cancer of the ovaries is increased. 