Infertility may be risk factor for early menopause, study suggests

Women with primary infertility may face a higher risk of early menopause and reach it about a year earlier, a study suggests.

The findings suggest women with primary infertility may be more likely to enter menopause before the age of 45.

The increased risk appeared most notable among women with unexplained infertility or a history of endometriosis.

Dr Stephanie Faubion, medical director for The Menopause Society, said: “This study shows that women with primary infertility, specifically those with unexplained infertility or a history of endometriosis, were at risk for early menopause.

“Given that early menopause is linked to adverse long-term health consequences, these women may benefit from counselling that they are at risk of early menopause.

“This will allow them to monitor for early menopause and to seek treatment with hormone therapy, if indicated.”

Early menopause is usually defined as menopause before age 45, while premature menopause is menopause before age 40.

Women who experience menopause earlier may face symptoms for longer and have a higher risk of long-term health problems.

These can include cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis and neurocognitive disorders. Osteoporosis weakens bones, while neurocognitive disorders affect memory, thinking or brain function.

The study, highlighted by The Menopause Society, involved nearly 700 people, roughly half of whom had been diagnosed with primary infertility.

It found that women with a history of primary infertility underwent natural menopause about one year earlier than those without such a history.

Researchers found no association between infertility and premature menopause.

Infertility affects around one in six people globally and can have consequences beyond family planning.

Previous research has linked infertility with higher rates of cancer and cardiovascular disease, although causes vary and may involve genetic, hormonal, in-utero or lifestyle factors.

In-utero factors are influences that occur while a baby is developing in the womb.

Earlier studies looking at links between infertility and early or premature menopause have produced mixed results, with some not accounting for different types of infertility.

The new study suggested that women with unexplained infertility or a history of endometriosis may have an increased risk of early menopause.

Endometriosis is a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows elsewhere in the body. It can cause pain, heavy periods and fertility problems.

Known risk factors for early or premature menopause include tobacco use, low body mass index, not having given birth and starting periods at a younger age.

Women who have had more childbirths and those with a history of oral contraceptive use have previously been linked to later menopause.

The researchers said women with primary infertility may benefit from additional counselling because of the systemic and long-term health effects of early menopause.

They also said women should be encouraged to seek evaluation and treatment if they experience a new loss of menstrual cycles.