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Surgery
A woman who has had her ovaries removed, either independently or as part of a total hysterectomy, experiences immediate menopause. Other types of abdominal surgery can interrupt the flow of blood to the ovaries, causing follicles to die.
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Premature ovarian failure
Women who enter menopause while they’re in their thirties or even twenties may have illnesses that cause their ovaries to stop functioning well ahead of schedule. A thorough medical evaluation is appropriate.
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Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
This medical condition interferes with ovulation, causing inflammation and scarring that damages and destroys follicles.
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Autoimmune disorders
These include insulin-dependent diabetes, hypothyroidism, rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.
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Cancer treatments
Chemotherapy and radiation therapy often trigger early menopause. Women taking tamoxifen to reduce their risk of breast cancer may also enter menopause early.
Related:
• Is it menopause? Questions to ask yourself
• 3 symptoms of menopause and how to cope
• 10 ways to sleep better during menopause