According to researchers from Peninsula Medical School, there are four genetic variations that may effect whether or not a women will go into early menopause. This test cannot predict early menopause, because there are surely more portions of DNA that affect when a women goes into menopause. However, this research is definitely a step forward in predicting menopause. Most women reach menopause around 51 years, but are infertile for ten years prior to menopause. So, if a woman reaches menopause early (before they are 45 years old), then they are infertile before they are 35. This can cause problems for older couples who are trying to conceive.
Research like this is very interesting. The data was accumulated by comparing DNA from women who went into menopause early, and women who went into menopause after their 45th birthday. It is very exciting that we as humans are getting to the point where we can merely compare the DNA of people with and without certain traits and find some difference between the DNA. The research itself is useful as well, especially if a woman wants to wait to have children. If people can carry out similar research via DNA like this study, there are many far-reaching possibilities.
I found this article very interesting because I was shocked to learn that some women are infertile as young as 35 years old. In today’s society many women choose to have children later in life due to career choices. It is sad that by the time they have finished school and are financially stable, that it would be too late for them to have children. Research in this field is helpful and would maybe help these women. Menopause also comes with many uncomfortable symptoms including mood swings, hot flashes and night sweats. After menopause many women experience weight gain and osteoporosis. It is important for women to see a doctor in order to evaluate treatment for these conditions.
ReplyDeleteThis research opens many doors in determining early menopause and then looking into treatment options. I also agree that the advances in genetic testing are very impressive. Medical advances can be made to help improve the health of these women just by genetic testing.
(http://www.bing.com/health/article/mayo-125327/Menopause?q=menopause&qpvt=menopause)