Psychological and urogenital menopause symptoms similarly burdensome regardless of age at menopause onset

Women experiencing menopause at the average age and those with premature ovarian insufficiency (POI) report similar symptom burden in psychological and urogenital domains, despite overall higher symptom scores in the average-age group, according to a cross-sectional study published June 24, 2026, in Menopause, the journal of The Menopause Society.^1,2

POI is defined as the loss of ovarian function before age 40, leading to earlier onset of menopause symptoms and long-term health consequences including increased risk of cardiovascular disease and osteoporosis.¹

Common menopause symptoms across both populations include hot flashes and night sweats, vaginal dryness and itching, urinary frequency or urgency, frequent urinary tract infections, joint pain, mood changes, memory lapses, hair and skin changes, and sexual dysfunction, all of which can dramatically affect a woman's quality of life. Although prior research has shown that women with POI have significantly lower health-related quality of life scores, few studies had previously compared symptom profiles between the 2 groups in detail.

Researchers conducted a cross-sectional observational study including women attending specialized menopause and POI clinics at an academic center in Toronto, Canada. Participants completed a standardized intake questionnaire and the validated instrument Menopause Rating Scale, which assessed psychological, somato-vegetative, and urogenital symptoms. Symptom prevalence and severity were compared between cohorts using nonparametric and categorical statistical tests.

The final study population included 374 women experiencing menopause at an average age (median age 53 years) and 149 women with POI (median age 34 years). Menopausal symptoms were common in both groups, with most women reporting symptoms in at least 1 domain.

What symptoms were most common?

Urogenital symptoms were the most prevalent and severe across both cohorts, encompassing sexual problems, bladder problems including incontinence, vaginal dryness or burning, and pain during intercourse.^1,2 Total Menopause Rating Scale scores were significantly higher among women experiencing average-age menopause compared with those with POI (P = 0.003), based on greater somato-vegetative symptom burden (P = 0.002).¹ Psychological and urogenital symptom scores, however, did not differ significantly between the 2 groups.

Clinical implications

The findings suggest that younger age in POI may not confer protection against psychological or urogenital symptoms, given the similar burden observed in both groups.

"These findings highlight the burden of menopause symptoms in young patients with premature ovarian insufficiency and underscore the importance of proactive, comprehensive symptom screening in all women experiencing perimenopause or menopause," said Stephanie Faubion, MD, medical director for The Menopause Society.²

References:

1. Zamani R, Abbasi C, Wang S, Wolfman W. Menopause symptoms in average-age menopause and premature ovarian insufficiency. Menopause. Published June 23, 2026. Accessed July 1, 2026. https://menopause.org/wp-content/uploads/press-release/MENO-D-26-00028.pdf
2. Psychological and Urogenital Menopause Symptoms Similar Regardless of Timing of Menopause. The Menopause Society. News release. Published June 23, 2026. Accessed July 1, 2026. https://menopause.org/press-releases/psychological-and-urogenital-menopause-symptoms-similar-regardless-of-timing-of-menopause