How does smoking affect menopause

Smoking has a significant impact on women’s health, particularly during menopause. Menopause is a natural biological process that occurs in women, typically between the ages of 45 and 55, marking the end of their menstrual cycles. However, smoking can accelerate this process, leading to an earlier onset of menopause.

### Early Onset of Menopause

Research indicates that smoking can increase the risk of early menopause by about 30%[4]. This is because smoking damages the ovaries, reducing the number of healthy eggs and triggering menopause earlier than it would naturally occur[3]. Women who smoke tend to enter menopause at a younger age compared to non-smokers, which can lead to a longer duration of menopausal symptoms.

### Increased Menopause Symptoms

Smoking not only brings on menopause earlier but also intensifies its symptoms. Women who smoke often experience more severe hot flashes, mood swings, and other menopausal symptoms compared to non-smokers. This can significantly affect their quality of life, making it more challenging to manage the transition.

### Health Risks Beyond Menopause

Beyond the effects on menopause, smoking poses numerous other health risks for women. It is a leading cause of lung cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), with women smokers being twenty-two times more likely to die from COPD than non-smokers[1]. Smoking also increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases, including coronary artery disease and stroke, especially when combined with other factors like oral contraceptives[1].

### Conclusion

In summary, smoking has a profound impact on menopause, accelerating its onset and exacerbating its symptoms. It also contributes to a range of serious health issues that can affect women throughout their lives. Quitting smoking is crucial for improving overall health and reducing the severity of menopausal symptoms.