Question:- I’m 35 years old and for approx 4 years I’ve been having really bad hormonal problems, my periods are now irregular and only last 2 days, I’m getting headaches and have really bad moods for at least 2 weeks a month when I’m irrational and tearful. My libido is GONE.  my quality of life is really suffering. I’ve been to my GP so many times !!! my mum started the menopause at 38 and my maternal grandmother at 41  so its running in the family.  …………Help

Reply:-  Premature menopause, also called premature ovarian failure and early menopause is defined as the onset of menopause before the age of 45 and affects one per cent of women. There are many possible reasons for this  including diet, smoking,  auto-immune diseases, cancer treatment, but with your family history this is to be expected. The symptoms have a dramatic effect on every one, not just yourself,  it’s important to try to alleviate them as much as soon as possible.

Although your GP has not been supportive ask to see another within the practice, asking for Thyroid function test, this gland is the main leader in the endocrine system of hormonal balance, check its not under active, as well as hormone levels, as these are never the same at any time of the month.

Does anyone else have this problem and how have you helped yourself?