Smoking May Bring Up the Age of Menopause by About 2 Years
What is Menopause?
Menopause is a natural period of life defined by a woman not having a menstrual period for 12 months. It usually occurs in the 40s or 50s and indicates the end of the reproductive period. Menopause is not a disease, but a natural biological process of women's life.
However, the menopause process does not start suddenly. The transition period before menopause and the variable period after menopause is called "perimenopause". This period may be different for each woman and can last up to 4 years on average.
Factors Affecting the Age of Menopause
The natural age of menopause is affected by many different factors. Among these:
- Genetic characteristics
- Ethnicity
- Smoking
- Reproductive history
- Lifestyle factors
is located.
It is known that the age of menopause can occur approximately two years earlier, especially in women who smoke. Therefore, quitting smoking can provide significant benefits not only for general health but also for women's health.
What are the symptoms of menopause?
Menopause and perimenopause may occur with different symptoms in each woman. While some women experience more than one symptom, some women may not have any obvious complaints.
Symptoms may begin months or years before the menstrual cycle stops completely, and in some women, they may also appear after the menstrual period ends.
The most common menopause symptoms are:
- Hot flashes
- Night sweats
- Sleeping problems
- Mood changes
- Anxiety and nervousness
- Fatigue
- Difficulty concentrating
It is known that hot flashes may occur more frequently and more severely in overweight or obese women. Therefore, maintaining a healthy weight is important in managing menopause symptoms.
Why Are Regular Health Checks Important During Menopause?
The natural decrease in estrogen levels that occurs during menopause can cause some health problems. For this reason, it is recommended that women should not neglect regular health checks.
Even if there are no complaints, it is important to have the following scans and checks performed at the recommended intervals:
- Smear test
- Pelvic examination
- Mammography
- Bone density measurement and bone scans
- General gynecological diseases and birth controls
Early diagnosis and regular follow-up can help prevent possible health problems.
Should Menopause Be Treated?
Menopause is not a condition that always requires treatment. Many women can go through this period more comfortably with lifestyle adjustments.
Recommended life habits during menopause are as follows:
- Balanced and healthy diet
- Regular physical activity
- Quality sleep pattern
- Stay away from smoking
- Stress management
However, if menopause symptoms significantly affect the quality of life and complaints continue despite lifestyle changes, different treatment options may be considered.
What are the Menopause Treatment Options?
Menopause treatment is planned individually. Treatment selection may vary depending on the severity of symptoms, the person's expectations and general health condition.
The treatment methods used today are generally:
Therapies Containing Hormones
These are treatments that aim to balance changes in hormone levels.
Treatments That Do Not Contain Hormones
These are alternative treatment options for women who cannot or do not prefer to use hormones.
The treatment plan must be determined after the evaluation of the specialist physician.
Effects of Menopause on Mental Health
During menopause and perimenopause, mood changes may occur due to hormonal changes.
Common situations that can be seen during this period are as follows:
- Depressed mood
- Feeling of anxiety
- Irritability
- Emotional fluctuations
To deal with these symptoms:
- Exercising regularly
- Getting enough rest
- Making time for relaxing activities
- Getting social support
recommended.
Communicating with family members, friends or people who are going through similar processes can help you go through menopause in a healthier way.
If mood changes significantly affect daily life, it is important to seek professional support. Psychological support methods such as cognitive behavioral therapy can also be beneficial in this process.
A Healthy Life is Possible During Menopause
Menopause is a natural part of women's life. Having accurate information, having regular health checks and maintaining healthy lifestyle habits can help make this period more comfortable. In particular, quitting smoking, regular exercise and a balanced diet can have positive effects on general health and quality of life during menopause.
Op. Dr. Esra Oben Tutar
Gynecology and Obstetrics Specialist
June 10, 2026
