Menstruation is a part of the female physiological cycle and ultimately leads to the natural menopausal stage. Some women hope for early menopause to relieve discomfort such as menstrual pain, while others believe that later menopause can extend their lifespan. However, the medical field has not established a direct link between “late menopause and longevity,” as the timing of menopause essentially reflects individual differences.
Menopause signifies the gradual decline of ovarian function, with age, the level of sex hormones produced by the ovaries decreases until the ovaries no longer release eggs, menstruation stops, completing the menopausal process. Estrogen, as a key element in maintaining reproductive system health and bone density, its reduction can lead to decreased skin elasticity and accelerated signs of aging.
Studies in the United States suggest that women who experience menopause after the age of 55 live slightly longer, around 13%, than women who go through menopause between the ages of 45 and 50. While this does not directly confirm the folk saying of “one year later menopause leads to three more years of life,” it implies a potential link between late menopause and extended lifespan.
The menstrual cycle generally begins around 12 to 15 years old and naturally ends around 45 to 50 years old. However, certain behaviors may accelerate ovarian aging, leading to early menopause, and should be avoided:
– Emotional fluctuations: Prolonged negative emotions such as depression, anger, or anxiety may disrupt the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, impair ovarian function, and increase the risk of premature aging.
– Unhealthy lifestyle habits: Frequent late nights and prolonged sitting not only affect hormonal balance but may also hinder ovarian blood circulation, laying the groundwork for premature ovarian aging.
– Excessive use of contraceptives: Frequent or long-term use of contraceptives containing estrogen and progestin may disrupt hormonal balance, have long-term negative effects on the ovaries, and even lead to premature aging.
– Unhealthy eating habits: Excessive intake of processed foods, high-fat and high-sugar foods, as well as spicy and irritating foods, may disturb normal ovarian function and increase the risk of premature aging. A balanced diet and limiting the intake of such foods are crucial for maintaining ovarian health.
In conclusion, although the relationship between menopausal age and lifespan is not absolute, maintaining good lifestyle habits, managing emotions, establishing regular routines, and adopting a balanced diet play a positive role in delaying ovarian aging and maintaining overall health.
