Can you delay menopause? Fertility specialist explains the role of healthy lifestyle and fertility

A balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management may delay menopause naturally. Experts explain the science behind reproductive longevity (Image: Pexels)

Menopause marks a significant transition in a woman’s life, signalling the end of her natural reproductive years. It occurs when the ovaries gradually stop producing estrogen and progesterone, typically between the ages of 45 and 55. Nevertheless, the timing of menopause can vary widely, influenced by genetics, lifestyle, and environmental factors.

Women who adopt healthy lifestyle choices are said to manage the transition better. Delaying menopause may be influenced by following healthier habits related to food, movement, and stress management and avoiding smoking, all of which can support reproductive health.

Dr Nilesh Unmesh Balkawade, Regional Medical Head and Fertility Specialist, Oasis Fertility, tells Moneycontrol, “Making positive lifestyle changes such as having a balanced nutrient-rich diet, regular exercise and managing stress, which tends to improve reproductive health and postpone the onset of menopause.”

Also Read: Menopause symptoms: What to expect from mood swings, hot flashes, skin changes

Dr Balkawade adds, “In contrast, habits such as smoking lower estrogen levels and impair ovarian health, leading to early onset of menopause.” Multiple studies suggest that a holistic approach to health and well-being is crucial as these factors impact the severity and duration of symptoms.

Furthermore, studies have shown that a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, plant-based proteins and omega-3 fatty acids boosts reproductive health. “Additionally, regular exercise aids in weight management and stress reduction, both of which are critical for hormonal health in general.” According to research, women who become pregnant more than once or who use hormonal contraceptives for a long time may delay the onset of menopause. This may possibly be due to longer preservation of ovarian function during times of reduced ovulation.

Regardless of when menopause begins, fertility levels decrease after the age of 35. “While healthy lifestyle choices may delay menopause, but cannot prevent the decline in egg quality and quantity. For those wishing to preserve their fertility options, such as egg freezing or fertility preservation, may be considered after consulting a qualified medical professional,” he informs.

Also Read: Everything you need to know about post-menopause according to a gynaecologist

When women adopt healthy behaviours, they experience improved reproductive and general health. Positive lifestyle changes may also help postpone menopause to some extent. Plus, women can make lifelong decisions regarding their fertility and health by being aware of these connections.

FAQs on Delaying Menopause:

1. Can a healthy diet delay menopause?

Yes, a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, plant-based proteins, and omega-3 fatty acids can boost reproductive health and potentially delay menopause.

2. Does regular exercise affect the timing of menopause?

Regular exercise aids in weight management and stress reduction, both critical for hormonal health, which may help in delaying menopause.

3. How does smoking influence menopause?

Smoking lowers estrogen levels and impairs ovarian health, leading to an earlier onset of menopause.

4. Can pregnancy or the use of hormonal contraceptives delay menopause?

Research suggests that women who become pregnant more than once or use hormonal contraceptives for a long time may delay the onset of menopause due to longer preservation of ovarian function during reduced ovulation periods.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.