If fertility and early menopause are a concern, Lobo also says it’s important to speak with a fertility specialist sooner rather than later to discuss options like egg freezing and in-vitro fertilization. “By the time women are already in perimenopause, egg freezing and IVF are usually no longer successful,” he adds.

Henríquez that HRT is one of the most valuable tools in the treatment of early menopause—especially when the cause, the symptoms, and family and personal history are taken into account. “The objective is to replenish the hormones that the ovaries have stopped producing early, in doses similar to those corresponding to age,” she says. “In this way we can help alleviate uncomfortable symptoms such as hot flashes, insomnia, and vaginal dryness while protecting bone and cardiovascular health and improving cognitive health.”

However, she also points out that there are instances where HRT is not always necessary—nor advisable. “When women do not present intense symptoms or with certain types of hormone-dependent cancers or in cases in which the patient has blood coagulation problems, other alternatives to hormone treatment should be offered,” she says, echoing Lobo. She also notes that both the doses and the form of administration must be adjusted to the profile of each woman depending on the predominant symptoms and the clinical situation. “An integrative approach seeks balance,” she explains.

Healthy habits during early menopause

For biologist and nutritionist María Pastor, taking an integrative approach is also key for optimizing the wellbeing of anyone dealing with menopause—early or otherwise. She recommends following an anti-inflammatory diet centered around omega-3 fatty acids that’s low in grains, cow dairy, processed foods, refined flours, and vegetable oils. She also says to focus on antioxidant foods such as flax, sesame, fermented soybeans, cruciferous vegetables, tahini, and legumes. And, “don’t forget prebiotic fiber to take care of digestive health, since the microbiota of the colon can be a great ally to reduce the symptoms,” she says, adding that it’s best to avoid alcohol, simple sugars, and make sure “that each main meal has a sufficient supply of quality protein.”

Pastor and Henriquez also recommend the use of certain supplements—although they stress that treatments should always be guided by an expert and personalized. Among their favorites: