Understanding the Genetic Factors Behind Menopausal Timing

If you had the power to know when menopause was likely to begin for you, would you want to know?

This is the desire fuelling much of the current research into understanding the genetic factors behind menopausal timing, with a continued evolution taking place in what we know about the factors that contribute to individual menopause experiences. With all kinds of studies forming this growing knowledge body, we’re moving closer to an understanding about how different genetic factors feed into the likelihood of menopause occurring at specific times within a woman’s life.

Unfortunately, as with many areas related to menopause, more research is needed to fully understand the genetic factors that can play a role in menopausal timing. This growing awareness can be a huge support to each of us as we look ahead to our menopausal years, building our collective and individual understandings of what may be around the corner as a result of our own genetic specifics.

We’re taking a look at what’s been discovered so far, as well as what this means for you individually as you move towards (or through) your menopausal years. 

 

What does the research say about genetic factors and menopausal timing?

In a June 2019 study from the North American Menopause Society, research was able to identify that genetics do play a strong role in determining both the age at which menopause begins and its overall longevity. With many women entering menopause either earlier or later in life than the average age of 52, there’s much to be considered when it comes to why menopause is likely to arrive ‘on schedule’ or not. 

In this study, genetic variants were studied via a meta-analysis of larger studies. Evidence was found for a genetic basis for the age of menopause, as well as links between genetic mechanisms of the age of menopause and human longevity. This can be good news for women who enter into menopause later, with research finding that women who were still fertile after the age of 40 were four times more likely than the average woman to live to 100 years or older. 

Another study from a hospital in the Netherlands noted that as environmental factors explain only a small part of the age variance at which menopause begins, then variations in natural menopause are predominantly determined by the interaction of multiple genes. This study investigated the contribution of genetic factors to menopausal age, with genetic estimates between sisters pointing to the role of a strong genetic contribution in the age at which menopause begins. In simple terms, it found that a woman whose family history included early menopause is more likely to experience early menopause (and, consequently, earlier infertility) herself.

In yet another study looking at genes and timing of menopause, researchers found 13 new regions of the genome associated with the timing of menopause, learning more about the biological pathways involved in reproductive lifespan. This study also provides key insights into menopause-related conditions, including breast cancer and heart disease. 

Senior author Dr Murray stated, ‘menopause is a process most women go through, yet we know very little about what governs the timing of this key event in a woman’s life. By finding out which genes control the timing of menopause we hope to be able to understand why this happens very early to some women, reducing their chances of having children naturally.’

 

At the Australian Menopause Centre, our cutting-edge personalised treatments are designed on a foundation of the latest advancements in menopausal care. Find the support you need for your menopause journey, no matter your genetic factors.

 

Can we influence the onset of menopause?

If our genetics play such a defining factor in our menopause experience, is there anything we can do to influence when it begins?

Alongside the foundational role of genetics here, lifestyle and environmental factors are also important considerations. For example, smoking, body mass index, and overall health and wellbeing factors can all contribute to both the timing of menopause and to its intensity. This can be of encouragement to all of us who are either at the starting line of menopause or in the midst of it: even if your genetic cards are out of your control and have been dealt already, there are many areas where you can significantly influence your day-to-day experience of menopause itself.

 

The importance of a personalised approach to menopause care

With this research into the genetic factors that impact menopause showing so many variables at play, it only further highlights how important personalised healthcare is throughout this season of transition. By understanding how both individual genetic factors and lifestyle factors can or may influence a woman’s menopause experience, healthcare teams can build tailored treatment plans that are centred on providing the highest quality of care throughout menopause for each individual. This is crucial in the fight against menopause-related chronic diseases, with personalised treatment pathways and prevention strategies necessary to make sure the risk of osteoporosis, heart disease, and more are limited and controlled throughout menopause. 

Not only is a personalised approach crucial to managing physical wellbeing and critical health markers, but it’s also important in lessening mental and emotional stress wherever possible. It’s no secret that menopause is as challenging a mental and emotional experience as it is a physical one, and by focusing on individual needs in these key areas, personalised treatment plans can make sure that support services are being used proactively and strategically. 

 

Conclusion

When it comes to when menopause may introduce itself, our genetics have more of an influence than we’re likely to fully recognise. We can, however, use this awareness of the role of genetics to prepare for what may be ahead, looking at patterns in the past to shape an understanding of future menopausal outcomes. If you’re looking for the highest quality of menopause support, no matter your genetic predisposition, connect with the experienced and caring team at the Australian Menopause Centre. Our personalised treatment approaches are designed to tackle all of menopause’s complexities, no matter what your family tree means for your own experience.