Pre-menopause is a condition that affects many women, often causing concern as they may believe it signals the end of their ability to have children. However, thanks to assisted reproduction techniques, it is still possible to become a mother.
What is Pre-Menopause?
Pre-menopause occurs when a woman’s ovarian function declines, resulting in reduced estrogen production. The timing of menopause is influenced by a woman’s ovarian reserve, which is determined at birth, as well as how quickly her eggs are used up during menstrual cycles. While menopause typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, pre-menopause happens when it begins before the age of 40.
There are several reasons why pre-menopause may occur, including:
Genetic factors: Women with a family history of early menopause are more likely to experience pre-menopause.
Oncologic treatments such as chemotherapy or radiotherapy.
Premature ovarian failure.
Ovarian surgery that impacts the ovarian reserve.
What are the Symptoms of Pre-Menopause?
Menopause signifies the end of fertility and can lead to physical and emotional challenges. The early signs of pre-menopause include:
Irregular periods that may continue for several months.
Vaginal dryness.
Mood changes and depression.
Decreased libido.
Hot flashes.
Difficulty sleeping.
Can I Still Get Pregnant?
Fortunately, the answer is yes. Thanks to assisted reproduction, women diagnosed with pre-menopause can still fulfill their dream of becoming mothers through egg donation. In this process, donor eggs are fertilized in a lab using either the partner’s sperm or sperm from an anonymous donor. The resulting embryo is then transferred into the woman’s uterus to carry the pregnancy.
IVF with egg donation offers high success rates because the donor eggs come from younger women, and the best quality eggs are carefully selected.
Early Diagnosis and Prevention
Pre-menopause can often be detected early, which is why preventive tests are important—especially if there is a family history of early menopause. A simple ultrasound during an annual gynecological check-up can help identify a low ovarian reserve. If pre-menopause is confirmed, women have the option to freeze their eggs to preserve fertility for future use in IVF.
Conclusion
While pre-menopause can be challenging, it does not mean the end of your dream to become a mother. With assisted reproduction techniques like egg donation or egg freezing, the journey to parenthood is still very much within reach. If you have concerns or need guidance, reach out to Nicosia Fertility to explore your options and take proactive steps toward your family goals.
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