Statement on World Menopause Day from Prof. Dr. Onur Erol
While experts emphasize that genetics is the biggest determinant, they state that healthy habits can reduce the risk of early menopause.
Prof. Dr. Onur Erol stated in his remarks for October 18 World Menopause Day that there is no safe method to completely delay the menopause process, but symptoms can be managed through a healthy lifestyle.
Menopause is a natural process marking the end of a woman's reproductive years. While natural menopause typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, the global average age is 51, and it ranges between 46 and 48 in Turkey. Experts point out that factors such as smoking, obesity, and physical inactivity increase the risk of early menopause.
Prof. Dr. Onur Erol stated that the most significant determining factor in the menopause process is genetics, conveying that lifestyle modifications can delay the onset of early menopause. It was noted that factors such as avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol, consuming an antioxidant- and omega-3-rich diet, regular exercise, stress management, and breastfeeding can reduce the risk.
It was reported that in alleviating symptoms, alongside menopausal hormone therapy, alternative options such as fezolinetant, elinzanetant, certain antidepressants, local estrogen creams, and herbal supplements can also be evaluated under physician supervision.