Menopause is a major transition for any woman.
The challenge is even greater when it arrives ahead of schedule.
For about 5% of women, menstrual periods end well before the average age of 51.
Early menopause begins at age 45, while premature menopause refers to 40 or younger.
Genetics and certain medical conditions can be contributing factors.
For example, you’re at higher risk if you’ve had chemotherapy, a hysterectomy, or autoimmune diseases. However, in many cases, the causes are unknown.
You can do little to prevent early menopause, but you can be prepared for the consequences.
Study this guide to learn more about protecting your mental and physical well-being.

Understanding the Risks of Early Menopause
Spending more years without the benefits of estrogen can affect your health in many ways. Early diagnosis and treatment will help you limit the potential impact.

1. Schedule a checkup. See your doctor if you notice changes in your period or if you’ve missed your period for 3 months or more. They can give you a physical exam and test your blood for hormones to determine the causes.

2. Consider HRT. Your doctor may recommend supplemental estrogen and progestin. They will also advise you about the risks and benefits of hormone replacement therapy.

3. Strengthen your bones. Ask your doctor about taking calcium and vitamin D supplements if your diet lacks these nutrients. Weight-bearing exercise thickens your bones too.

4. Prevent heart disease. Early menopause is associated with a 33% higher risk of heart failure. Pay extra attention to your cholesterol and blood pressure, eating healthy, and exercising.

5. Fight stroke. There's also some evidence of a higher risk of stroke. It’s vital to call 911 immediately because prompt treatment may help limit brain damage.

6. Quit smoking. Giving up tobacco is one thing you can do to help delay menopause.  Make a plan, and pick a date for breaking the habit.

Other Suggestions For Dealing With Early Menopause
You can also expect to experience symptoms typical of natural menopause. Try these proven strategies for reducing any discomfort.

1. Reduce hot flashes. About 80% of menopausal women have them, and they’re often more severe when they start early. Cool off by dressing in layers and buying a portable fan.

2. Train your mind. Brain fog and difficulty concentrating are another common complaint. Challenge your brain with word puzzles and enriching hobbies. Study a foreign language or ancient history. Remember that physical exercise boosts your thinking skills too.

3. Watch your weight. Middle-age spread is the fat that accumulates around your midsection as you age. The causes may be a combination of hormones and inactivity. Weigh yourself regularly to adjust your diet before the pounds add up.

4. Stay hydrated. You’re losing more water due to hot flashes and sweating. Replace those fluids by carrying around a water bottle and eating foods with high water content. Smart choices include most fruits and vegetables.

5. Moisturize more. Do your hair and skin feel dryer? If you’re on a tight budget, try inexpensive products like petroleum jelly that usually work just as well as expensive department store brands.

6. Sleep well. Night sweats and other changes associated with aging can lead to insomnia. Given that sleep deprivation can increase your risk for heart attacks, it’s especially important to get your rest. Stick to a consistent bedtime, and check with your doctor if you need more help.

You can ease the symptoms of early or premature menopause. Practice healthy lifestyle habits, and talk with your doctor about hormone replacement therapy and other suitable options.
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Giving your child a healthy start is fundamental.
​As a parent, you play a major role in their early development. You can help them to adopt habits that will enhance the quality of their life for years to come.

Make smart choices while your child is still an infant and reinforce them as they grow. While you're keeping them strong and fit, you’ll also be nurturing a close and loving relationship.

Try these tips for raising a healthy kid.

Encouraging Your Child’s Physical Wellbeing:
1.Breastfeed if possible. Breast milk is easily digested and protects your baby from infections and diseases. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends breastfeeding for at least the first 6 months.

2. Eat whole foods. When you introduce solid foods, steer away from processed products. Offer lots of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains.

3. Limit sugar. The American Heart Association recommends no sugar for kids under 2, and less than 6 teaspoons a day from 2 to 18. Cutting back on soda and sweets reduces the risk of obesity, diabetes, and heart conditions.

4. Exercise regularly. Excessive screen time makes kids too sedentary. CDC guidelines call for at least 60 minutes of moderate or vigorous physical activity each day.

5. Enforce bedtimes. Bodies and brains need more sleep when they’re still developing. That ranges from a minimum of 14 hours for newborns to 9 hours for school-aged children.

6.Wash your hands. Cleanliness protects your kids and your community from germs. Show your children how to wash hands correctly with soap and running water.

7.Brush your teeth. Cavities in baby teeth can contribute to dental issues later in life. Introduce your child to a dentist before their first birthday and teach them how to make oral hygiene part of their daily life.

8. Apply sunblock. Childhood sunburns increase the risk for skin cancer. Keep babies under 6 months in the shade and buy broad spectrum sunscreens with an SPF of 30 or higher for the rest of the family.

9. Use safety gear. Take advantage of products that protect your child from accidents and injuries. Stay up to date with car seats, bicycle helmets, and other safety aids.

10. See your pediatrician. Schedule regular wellness visits and learn about symptoms that require urgent care. Ask your pediatrician any questions you have.

Encouraging Your Child’s Mental and Social Wellbeing:

1. Listen closely. Pay attention to what your children have to say. Encourage them to talk openly about their feelings. You’ll earn their trust and make it easier for them to turn to you if they’re in trouble.

2.Praise generously. Discipline is more about education than punishment. Let your child know when you’re proud of their behavior.

3.Manage stress. Kids feel pressured too. Exercise together. Show them how to use arts and crafts to express emotions that they may be unable to put into words.

4.Play for fun. Take a break from competitive sports and academics. Join them for unstructured play. Stage a puppet show or run through the sprinklers in your backyard.

5. Spend time together. Make family time a top priority. Plan weekend outings and one-on-one activities. Share family meals at least once a day.

6. Visit your library. Help your children to develop a love for books. Stock up on reading materials at home and check the calendar at your local library for story times and other events.

​Help your child to build a strong foundation for their overall health and wellbeing. Remember that you’re their primary teacher and role model. Your guidance and example increase their chances for a long and happy life!