Study Reveals Connection Between Endometriosis and Early Menopause

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Queensland has established a significant link between endometriosis and an increased risk of both premature and early menopause among women. This comprehensive international research indicates that women affected by endometriosis are seven times more likely to undergo surgical menopause, which involves the removal of both ovaries, and also face a heightened risk of experiencing natural menopause before the age of 40 or early menopause between the ages of 40 and 44.

The findings, published in the journal Human Reproduction, reveal that women with endometriosis typically experience surgical menopause approximately 19 months earlier than their peers, while natural menopause occurs about five months sooner. Notably, these women are twice as likely to face surgical menopause prior to turning 40 and 1.4 times more likely to undergo natural menopause before this age.

Senior author of the study, Professor Gita Mishra, highlighted the known associations between early and surgical menopause and various adverse health outcomes, including cardiovascular disease and increased risk of premature mortality. She emphasized the need for a thorough understanding of the factors contributing to early or medically induced menopause and the importance of proactive measures to mitigate long-term health risks.

The study analyzed data from nearly 280,000 women across Australia, the United Kingdom, Sweden, and Japan between 1996 and 2022, making it the largest investigation into the timing and type of menopause in women with endometriosis. This research is part of the InterLACE collaboration, which focuses on women's reproductive health and chronic disease throughout their lives.

Endometriosis is a chronic inflammatory condition that affects approximately one in seven women in Australia, characterized by the growth of tissue similar to the uterine lining in other areas of the body. Dr. Hsin-Fang Chung, a key researcher in the study, expressed hope that these findings will prompt updates to management guidelines for endometriosis, highlighting the necessity of long-term monitoring for affected individuals.

Dr. Chung recommends that women diagnosed with endometriosis remain vigilant about their health, regularly consulting their general practitioners to monitor potential chronic disease risk factors and focusing on preventive strategies.

Further research is planned to explore the implications of endometriosis on long-term chronic disease risks. The study's findings will be presented at the upcoming 16th World Congress on Endometriosis in Sydney.