Does starting periods at a young age mean early menopause?

Question

I started my periods at 9 years old - having lots of problems now, I know this could be my thyroid levels (Graves - as some of you may know) - but could it be an early menopause because I started my periods at such a young age?

Answer 1

No, I started mine at age 10, I am now 50 and still getting them regular as clockwork, so you had better see your doc and get it sorted my sweet!

I know 40 years of it, I am quite looking forward to the menopause!!

Answer 2

Well the average age for girls to start is 12 and the earliest age is 9 . That's only 3 years difference so it wouldn't mean early menopause .  

Answer 3

not necessarily, i started at 11 quite young too and it had no effect at all. same for all women in my family. go to docs nonetheless

Answer 4

I read that it is apparently the opposite.

The younger you start your periods, the later you will finish them.

and

The later you start, the earlier you will finish.

I know I read this but cant swear to how accurate itis.

Answer 5

Over the years, the ages women start their periods is lowering this is due to our changing lifestyles.

I started mine when i was 11, and my friend started younger than me.

I dont think theres a problem with the age you started, however if your really worried talk to a nurse/GP.

Dont believe everything you read on the internet, some of the stuff just messes with your head and makes you worry ! :)

Answer 6

Hi Darling,

I've had a lot of 'period problems' recently, I didn't start mine until I was 15 , and am now 38, and they're looking into the possibility than I'm going through the menopause. I was talking to the Gynae Consultant, it appears that the opposite is USUALLY true, the earlier you start the later you finish? And vice versa. The sad thing is that even though my periods have always been heavy and sometimes are painful I've liked having them.

So if you have any worries then it would be best to go and speak with the nurse or the doctor?

Good Luck Darling,

C x*x